Odpovedal: EDUSAN - neurologist Re: Multiple sclerosis (číslo príspevku 2.119, zo dňa 18.02.2001. videné 263x) ODPOVEDAŤ / Predchádzajúci príspevok   Text príspevku číslo 2119: 1. Initial symptoms of MS are individual (as you can read in letter from Helen) but in principle there must be dissemination of the symptoms in time an space (attacks of remissions and different parts of central nervous system must be affected). The initial symptoms are weakness or numbness, blurred vision, vertigo, thermal and algesic dysesthesias, bladder dysfunction etc. The symptoms are worsened in increase temperature (e.g. during hot bath) and changing in time (remitting nature of the disease). 2. Muscle spasms and sensitive disturbances can be signs of MS spinal lesion. Short-term memory problems are not signs of initial MS. The similar symptoms and pain in the joints can be also due to borreliosis infection (Borrelia garinii - tick bite). Encephalomyelitis in borreliosis and MS cannot by differentiated even in MRI scans and CSF findings. But serological tests (IFT, ELISA, Immunoblot, PCR) can be helpful in diagnosis establishment. Neuroborreliosis is treatable disease (antibiotics in 3-4 weeks cure). 3. In early stage of MS (1 – 2 years) it is often difficult to establish diagnosis of MS - „possible MS“ and other terms are used to describe this condition. Immunological examination can be also helpful (T and B lymphocytes). Every neurologist can use evoked potentials, MRI scans, CSF fluid examination and other diagnostic methods. In prevention and treatment is important to avoid infections, use of vitamins (B1, B6, B12) and high dose use of corticoids (bolus of methylprednison i.v. for 3 – 5 days) during the attack. 4. For more detail answer we must know age, onset of the symptoms, clinical course, history of tick bite etc. Anamnesis is still most important part of MS diagnosis. You can send evoked potentials curves to our electrophysiologist, MRI scans to our neuroradiologist - if necessary (as attached file in EM – you can use scanner or digital photo...).