Beginner's Guide to MS: What is a Lesion?

A different type of lesion is often called a BLACK HOLE which is believed to be evidence of AXONAL LOSS, meaning that the nerve fibers are “dead.”  Not all active lesions turn into black holes due to the busy work of the oligodendrocytes.  Go REMYELINATION!!!

Ultimately, what is the significance of lesions? 

Do more lesions equate to more disability?  No.
Do fewer lesions equate to less disability?  No.
Do the placement of lesions correlate to specific symptoms?  Yes, No, and Maybe.
Can the appearance of lesions change from week to week?  Yes.

So.  Why do we care so much about lesions?

Detecting lesions on an MRI scan helps to gather enough evidence for a diagnosis of MS.  Monitoring disease activity helps to determine if a patient’s choice of DISEASE-MODIFYING TREATMENT is working sufficiently.  A large change in lesion load can guide the neurologist in deciding on a change in treatment plan, if necessary.

And, admit it - Lesions are fun to look for when you’ve just had an MRI and are looking at the pretty pictures of your insides on the CD of the images you brought home. 

You did ask for a copy of the MRI images on CD didn't you?