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Radiologically Isolated Syndrome (RIS) is not technically a type of MS, but rather a condition where someone has MS-like lesions on their brain or spinal cord without experiencing any symptoms. While the brain scans look similar to those of MS patients, people with RIS don't have any physical symptoms or neurological Show Full Answer

Radiologically Isolated Syndrome (RIS) is not technically a type of MS, but rather a condition where someone has MS-like lesions on their brain or spinal cord without experiencing any symptoms. While the brain scans look similar to those of MS patients, people with RIS don't have any physical symptoms or neurological problems.

There is ongoing debate in the medical community about whether RIS is a preliminary form of MS or a separate condition entirely. Research shows that some people with RIS may later develop MS. Studies found that within five years of their first MRI scan, about two-thirds of people with RIS developed new lesions, and one-third experienced clinically isolated syndrome, which can be a precursor to MS. The location of lesions may help predict whether RIS will progress to MS.

RIS is more common in people who have relatives with multiple sclerosis, though most people with RIS will not develop MS.

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Radiologically Isolated Syndrome vs. Multiple Sclerosis