Sunday, April 26, 2009 fredom256 asks

Q: Do I need MRI with contrast?

I am being worked up for MS. So far all test negative. I have ony had MRI's of brain w/o contrast. SHould I get one with contrast? I was fine one day and then not..Cognitive problems..walking funny..I am waiting for CSF studiens to come back?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Answers (2)
Lisa Emrich, Health Guide
4/28/09 10:38am

For a brief overview of testing and criteria for MS diagnosis, see Beginner's Guide to MS: Do I have MS? What does it take to get diagnosed with MS?

 

The contrast helps to make lesions show up more clearly on certain MRI scans.  When dealing with MS, it is standard to have MRIs done with and without Gadolinium contrast.

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5/ 1/09 4:11pm

I am new to MS, but I have been getting MRI's every six months for a while now.  My neurologist told me to always get MRI's done with contrast.  She also said that if any other doctor ever sent me to get an MRI for something else to ask to have it done with contrast because she is going to want to look at it, and if it isn't done she will make them do it over!!  LOL Smile  She's a brilliant gal with a great sense of humor, so I trust her, but I would certainly discuss it with your own Dr.  Hope this helps.

 

Michelle

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By fredom256— Last Modified: 12/25/10, First Published: 04/26/09