Brain Talk or How to Make Sense of your MRI

And this little note of two sentences was the root of my bad news.  When they talk about demyelinating disease they are talking about Multiple Sclerosis here.  I never have gotten an answer as to what constitutes "multiple" lesions.  Is there a certain number that if you have more than this number, you are suspect for having MS?  Perhaps one of you can answer that one. 

Now what of these terms of "Subcortical" and "Periventricular"?  Subcortical refers to nerve centers found immediately below the cerebral cortex. The cerebral cortex is important for such mental functions as memory (what else...I have forgotten already!  :>)), attention, and language.  This does explain some of my symptoms. 

I found a good definition for periventricular white matter on this site where the author defines it as "white matter that is immediately to the side of the two lateral ventricles of the brain. The lateral ventricles are two curved openings (shaped like a horseshoe) located deep within the top section of the brain. White matter is a group of white nerve fibers that conduct nerve impulses quickly. White matter is important for muscle movements." 

So this does explain many of the symptoms that I have pertaining to movement. 

Lastly I want to leave you with a link which I found to be very helpful.  This site is called the Radiology Assistant and everything and anything you want to know about MRI's will probably be there. 

I hope this was helpful.  Feel free to share any more information you have about MRI terminology or what certain things mean.  It does help to be aware and knowledgeable about what the tests can mean.  It makes me feel more empowered.  I would love to hear your thoughts.  Please don't hesitate to share them here.