Multiple Sclerosis and MRI Scans: Understanding the Role of Imaging

Multiple sclerosis, commonly known as MS, is a condition that affects the central nervous system. Learning about MS can bring up many questions, including how it is evaluated, why MRI is used, and what role imaging can play over time.

At Diagnostic Imaging Northwest, we provide MRI examinations for patients who are being evaluated for possible MS as well as patients who have already been diagnosed and return for follow-up imaging. While every patient’s healthcare journey is different, understanding the general process can help make an MRI experience feel a little more familiar.

What Is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis is a disease of the central nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves.

With MS, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks myelin, the protective covering around nerve fibers. Damage to myelin can interfere with communication between the brain and the rest of the body.

MS can affect people in different ways. Some commonly recognized symptoms include vision changes, numbness or tingling, weakness, fatigue, balance or coordination difficulties, and other neurological changes.

Because these symptoms can occur with many different conditions, the process of evaluating MS typically involves more than one piece of information. A healthcare provider may consider a person’s symptoms, medical history, neurological examination, imaging, and other testing.

What Is an MRI?

MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging.

An MRI uses a powerful magnet, radio waves, and computer processing to create detailed images of structures inside the body. MRI does not use ionizing radiation and can provide detailed views of the brain, spinal cord, and other soft tissues.

Because MS affects the central nervous system, MRI is an important imaging tool commonly used when physicians are evaluating and monitoring the condition.

How Is MRI Used in MS?

One of the ways MS can affect the central nervous system is by causing areas of damage or scarring, often referred to as lesions.

MRI can help create detailed images that allow physicians to look for these areas and evaluate their location and characteristics.

MRI findings are considered alongside other clinical information when healthcare providers evaluate a patient for MS. In other words, an MRI is one part of the overall process rather than a stand-alone diagnosis.

Different types of MRI examinations may be used depending on what a healthcare provider is evaluating. Brain and spinal cord imaging can both be part of the imaging process for MS.

Why Do Some Patients Have Repeat MRIs?

MRI can also be used as part of ongoing MS care.

When a patient has previous MRI examinations, newer images can sometimes be compared with earlier studies. This gives the healthcare team an opportunity to look for changes over time.

Depending on the individual and their healthcare plan, follow-up MRI examinations may be performed periodically, including yearly imaging in some situations.

The timing and type of follow-up imaging can vary. A patient’s neurologist or other healthcare provider determines what imaging is appropriate based on the individual’s circumstances.

What Is an MRI Experience Like?

At Diagnostic Imaging Northwest, we understand that an MRI can feel unfamiliar, particularly for someone who has never had one before.

Our goal is to make the imaging experience as comfortable and straightforward as possible.

Before the examination, an MRI technologist will review medical and allergy information, explain the process, and answer questions. A technologist will remain available throughout the examination.

Our technologists also have experience working with patients who may feel anxious or claustrophobic during an MRI.

During the Examination

MRI scans are usually about 30-60 minutes, although patients should allow approximately 1½ hours for the complete registration and examination process.

For safety, patients are asked to change into a gown to avoid possible interference from metal in clothing. Personal belongings such as jewelry, watches, and keys can be stored in a secure locker.

During the scan, it is normal to hear humming, tapping, or thumping sounds. Earplugs, headphones, or music may be available to help make the experience more comfortable.

Depending on the examination, intravenous contrast or a specialized coil may be used to help produce detailed images.

What Happens After the MRI?

After the examination, a board-certified radiologist interprets the MRI images.

A final report is then sent to the referring healthcare provider. The provider uses the radiologist’s report along with other clinical information as part of the patient’s overall care.

When previous imaging is available, current and prior examinations may also be compared when appropriate.

Diagnostic Imaging Northwest Is Here to Help

An MRI is more than a machine and a set of images. For many patients, it is one part of a larger healthcare process.

At Diagnostic Imaging Northwest, we understand that patients may have questions about what to expect before, during, and after an MRI. Our team is here to provide information about the imaging process and help patients feel comfortable throughout their visit.

Whether an MRI is being performed as part of an initial evaluation or as follow-up imaging, our focus is on providing skilled, personal care every step of the way.

We work alongside referring healthcare providers by providing detailed diagnostic images and radiology reports that can become part of the patient’s overall healthcare record.