Multiple sclerosis diagnosis

Multiple sclerosis can occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's cells. As a result, it damages the myelin sheath around nerve fibers, forming sclerotic plaques in affected areas. Doctors typically perform a physical and neurological examination to diagnose multiple sclerosis, review the patient's medical history, and conduct various tests. During the neurological assessment, the doctor assesses reflexes, balance, and coordination and looks for areas of numbness. In some cases, an ophthalmologist may also be consulted to evaluate visual acuity and the condition of the fundus. Then, a patient might be indicated for:A detailed blood test to exclude infections and other diseases similar to multiple sclerosis, such as Lyme disease, HIV, and some autoimmune disorders. MRI detects areas of inflammation, damage, or scarring (plaques) on the brain and spinal cord. Evoked potential tests measure the nervous system's electrical signals when it responds to stimuli. This test can use visual or electrical impulses to evaluate the functions of the optic nerve, brain stem, and spinal cord to identify any abnormalities that may indicate an illness. Spinal puncture by taking a small amount of cerebrospinal fluid from the area surrounding the spinal cord. This fluid is then analyzed for specific proteins and markers that may indicate the illness's presence. A comprehensive examination allows an early diagnosis, assesses the location and severity of the process, and slows down the progression of the disease.