Diagnosing MS

MS can take a variety of forms, but initially it is most commonly relapsing and remitting. This can make diagnosis of the disease difficult, because symptoms that may be alarming or surprising often disappear after a few days, only to resurface months later. Also, many of the signs and symptoms associated with MS can be caused by a variety of other, often less serious, conditions.

The most common reasons why patients with MS present to their doctor are: Weakness in the arms or legs
Unusual sensation, e.g. pins and needles
Impairment of vision
Loss of coordination

Diagnostic tests

How does the neurologist begin to differentiate the different possible causes of the same symptoms? He uses the process of 'differential diagnosis' using the techniques described in the pages below: