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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.
March 20
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A MyMSTeam Member

The spinal cord ends there so it would only be what’s seen on L1 L2

lesions at the L1-L2 spinal cord level, where the spinal cord ends (conus medullaris), typically appear as small, short, and often peripheral focal spots on MRI, frequently affecting less than 50% of the cross-sectional area. These lesions can cause significant, often permanent, motor/sensory deficits in the legs, and bowel/bladder dysfunction, as spinal lesions carry a high risk of residual impairment.
Spinal Cord, Inc.
Spinal Cord, Inc.
+5
Key Aspects of L1-L2 MS Lesions
Location Significance: L1-L2 is the end of the spinal cord (conus medullaris). Lesions here affect the nerves that manage lower extremity function, bowel, and bladder.
Appearance on MRI: MS lesions are often short (less than two vertebral segments) and can be centrally or eccentrically located. They are best visualized via MRI, usually appearing as white (hyperintense) areas on T2-weighted scans.
Symptoms: Because of the dense nerve pathways at this junction, damage can lead to sudden leg weakness, numbness, and severe bladder/bowel issues.
Differential Diagnosis: While common in MS, similar lesions can be caused by neuromyelitis optica (NMO), which usually appears as a long segment (3+ levels) lesion.
Flint Rehab
Flint Rehab
+7
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. For diagnosis or treatment, please consult a medical professional.

March 20
MyMSTeam

Have you experienced MS lesions in your lumbar spine, with only cervical lesions so far?

MS spinal lesions most commonly develop in two main areas:

- Cervical spine (neck area) - about 60% of spinal lesions form here
- Thoracic spine (mid-back area)

Lumbar lesions are less commonly discussed in MS, as most spinal cord Show Full Answer

Have you experienced MS lesions in your lumbar spine, with only cervical lesions so far?

MS spinal lesions most commonly develop in two main areas:

- Cervical spine (neck area) - about 60% of spinal lesions form here
- Thoracic spine (mid-back area)

Lumbar lesions are less commonly discussed in MS, as most spinal cord lesions tend to occur higher up in the cervical and thoracic regions. However, symptoms can vary based on where lesions form along the spinal cord.

Since you're experiencing new symptoms, it's important to discuss them with your neurologist. They may recommend an MRI to check for any new lesions, including in the lumbar area. Spinal cord lesions are more likely to cause noticeable symptoms compared to brain lesions, and tracking changes over time helps guide treatment decisions.

What specific symptoms are you noticing? Common symptoms from spinal lesions include walking difficulties, numbness or tingling, bladder issues, and bowel dysfunction.

March 20
A MyMSTeam Member

ShannonB2 my lumber at the top measurements are 16mm and at the bottom measures at 10mm. It is no fun. God bless 🙏 you with everything girl

March 21

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