When a person has MS, the condition can cause small areas of scarring or damage in the brain and spinal cord known as lesions. Radiology tests can help doctors identify these lesions, which could confirm an MS diagnosis. Before a diagnosis of MS can be made, a doctor must identify the following: Indicators of lesions or damage in at least two areas of the brain, spinal cord, or optic nerves Indicators that the damage to the two lesions has taken place at least 1 month apart Radiology tests that aid in MS diagnosis: Magnetic resonance imaging RI is the most sensitive, noninvasive way to view portions of the central nervous system. It is also the "preferred imaging method" for diagnosing MS and monitoring the disease's progression.
An MRI is useful to doctors because myelin, the substance that is destroyed by MS, is made of fatty tissue. Fat is like oil in that it repels water. An MRI…
