Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a complex and often misunderstood neurological condition that affects nearly 1 million people in the United States. As its symptoms can be so varied and overlap with other disorders, getting an accurate diagnosis is critical. One of the key tools doctors use to diagnose MS is a brain MRI, but interpreting these images isn’t always straightforward.
In fact, studies show that misdiagnosis of MS occurs in up to 20% of cases, often leading to unnecessary treatments, delayed care for the actual condition, and emotional stress. If you or a loved one has undergone a brain MRI for suspected MS, here’s why seeking a second opinion from a subspecialized neuroradiologist can make all the difference.
What Is MS and How Is It Diagnosed?
Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering (myelin) of nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. This leads to inflammation, nerve damage, and a wide range of possible symptoms, including:
- Numbness or tingling
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Muscle weakness
- Difficulty with balance or coordination
- Cognitive issues
The Role of MRI in Diagnosing MS
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a requirement in diagnosing MS. It helps detect lesions in the brain and spinal cord, areas of inflammation, or damage that are consistent with MS.
Radiologists look for:
- White matter lesions, especially around the ventricles (periventricular), corpus callosum, and brainstem
- Lesions that change or enhance with contrast
- Dissemination of lesions in time and space, meaning the lesions appear in different locations and develop at different times
However, interpreting these findings accurately requires deep expertise, and that’s where mistakes can happen.
Common Misdiagnoses: When MS Isn’t MS
Because many conditions can cause brain lesions, MS is frequently misdiagnosed. A landmark study from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center found that nearly 1 in 5 people diagnosed with MS were later found not to have the disease.
Some of the most common MS mimics include:
- Migraine (especially chronic migraine with aura)
- Small vessel ischemic disease (commonly seen in older adults or those with hypertension)
- Neuromyelitis optica (NMO)
- Functional neurological disorders
- Lupus or other autoimmune diseases
- B12 deficiency
- Lyme disease
In these cases, MRI findings may look suspicious for MS at first glance, but a deeper, more specialized interpretation may tell a different story.
Why a Second Opinion from a Neuroradiologist Matters
General radiologists are highly trained, but neuroradiologists undergo additional years of fellowship training focused solely on the brain, spine, and nervous system. They’re experts at evaluating subtle differences in MRI findings that could change the diagnosis entirely.
A second opinion from a neuroradiologist or a neuroradiology focused radiologist can:
- Confirm or correct an MS diagnosis
- Identify overlooked alternative causes
- Help avoid unnecessary medications (such as disease-modifying therapies)
- Offer peace of mind or early intervention if MS is confirmed
In a condition as life-altering as MS, confidence in your diagnosis is critical. A second opinion can provide that extra layer of certainty, especially when treatment decisions are on the line.
Get a Brain MRI Second Opinion Today
If you've been told your brain MRI suggests MS, or if you're still searching for answers, getting a second opinion from a neuroradiology focused radiologist is a smart, proactive step. It could save you from years of unnecessary treatment or help you start the right treatment sooner.
Connect today with a you with board-certified radiologist who focuses on neuroradiology and who specializes in personalized second opinions. Your brain health is too important to leave to chance.
To get started, upload your exam's images to your MDView account, complete the questionnaire for the radiologist to explain details about your history, concerns, and clinical symptoms, review the eligible radiologists who specialize in your Brain MRI, and submit to get peace of mind. Most reports are ready within 72-hours, with the option to have your report expedited if eligible at the time of submission. Don't have your exam's images to upload? MDView can get them on your behalf at no cost to you! Just click the Have MDView Get My Exam button in your account to get started today.
Visit https://app.mdview.com today to get started!