Presently, no symptoms, laboratory tests, or physical findings can confirm if a person has multiple sclerosis. The techniques used to diagnose multiple sclerosis are a careful examination of medical history, a neurologic examination, and various techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), evoked potentials (EP), and spinal fluid analysis. A physician performs several tests to evaluate the emotional and language functions, coordination and body movements, and vision.
Criteria for diagnosis of multiple sclerosis
- At least two separate areas of the central nervous system, which is composed of the brain spinal cord and optic nerve, have been damaged
- Finding evidence that the damage occurred independently
- Ruling out all other possible diagnoses
Diagnostic techniques
MRI: MRI is useful in identifying the second area of damage and cases of the clinically-isolated syndrome (CIS). It can also confirm whether the damage has occurred at two different time points. However, MRI is not a full-proof method due to the fact that approximately 5% of people with MS do not initially show lesions caused by neuronal damage. Moreover, in people aged above 50, there are often small areas in the brain due to aging process which can be mistaken for MS.
Cerebrospinal fluid: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a clear, colorless liquid which circulates in the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) and provides a cushion (primary function) and nutrition to the brain and removes wastes from the central nervous system. In people with MS, the CSF is found to have elevated levels of IgG antibodies and a specific group of proteins called oligoclonal bands has been detected. In some cases, breakdown products of myelin sheaths are also found.
Evoked potential: Evoked potential (EP) tests detect the slowing of electrical potential due to the destruction of myelin.
Treatments
There is no cure for MS but a lifestyle change and medication helps in the management of MS. A few treatment options for MS have been listed below:
Disease-modifying drugs: Cases of lapsing-remitting MS are treated with disease-modifying drugs. These medications slow down the further progression of the disease and prevent flare-ups. These medications work by curbing the activity of the immune system thus protecting the destruction of myelin.
Beta interferons: Beta interferons reduce the immune system activity by decreasing the number of white blood cell numbers in the blood. A reduction in the WBC makes a person more susceptible to infections.
Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation involves physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech and swallowing therapy, cognitive rehabilitation, and vocational rehabilitation.
Plasma exchange: In this process, blood from the patient is withdrawn, the plasma is removed from the blood and replaced with new plasma. This removes harmful antibodies which were attacking the patient’s body.
Vitamin D and omega-3 supplements: A clear link between vitamin-D deficiency and MS exists. Moreover, it has been shown that omega-3 supplementation reduces the chances of MS. However, no conclusive results are available and one should consult a doctor before taking any supplements.
