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Real members of MyMSTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Is the spinal tab or lumbar puncture necessary to diagnosed M if you have atypical symptoms?

A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
New Port Richey, FL
October 12, 2024
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A MyMSTeam Member

With atypical behavior it is always neccassary to eliminate other things as well, so not just about confirmation but about excluding other causes

October 12, 2024
A MyMSTeam Member

I was diagnosed without one. I have never had one. My doctor told me she could tell by my MRI. I was ok with that.

October 12, 2024
MyMSTeam

Diagnosing multiple sclerosis (MS) often requires several tests, and a lumbar puncture (LP), or spinal tap, is one of them. During a lumbar puncture, a needle is inserted in the lower back to obtain a sample of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This sample is tested for various substances, including blood cell counts, protein and Show Full Answer

Diagnosing multiple sclerosis (MS) often requires several tests, and a lumbar puncture (LP), or spinal tap, is one of them. During a lumbar puncture, a needle is inserted in the lower back to obtain a sample of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This sample is tested for various substances, including blood cell counts, protein and glucose levels, and antibodies.

However, a lumbar puncture is just one of the diagnostic tools. Neurologists may also perform physical and neurological exams, blood tests, and MRI tests to rule out other conditions and arrive at a definitive MS diagnosis. Even if you have atypical symptoms, a lumbar puncture can provide valuable information but is not the sole method for diagnosing MS.

October 12, 2024

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