severe MS that leads to disability or more frequent inflammatory breakthroughs.
Emerging research is evaluating whether these paramagnetic rim lesions can help diagnose MS earlier.
“We’re seeing very encouraging data that the presence of those lesions at the initial scan can help us make a diagnosis of MS when combined with other clinical and radiological features,” Al-Louzi says.
Yet another diagnostic tool being explored at Cedars-Sinai is the use of blood biomarkers connected to MS. Alongside expert partners in experimental proteomics, Kaisey is in the early stages of investigating this cutting-edge technique.
“We’re looking at whether there are proteins or parts of proteins in our blood that can give us a look into what’s going on in the central nervous system itself.” Kaisey adds. “Until now, we didn’t have sensitive enough technology to pick up the small proteins that make it from the spinal fluid into the blood.”
Securing a blood sample is much easier and less invasive for patients compared to a spinal tap and lumbar puncture.
With the advancement of technology, the future for multiple sclerosis patients looks extremely promising, however, in the meantime, there are a few things you can do to make sure your diagnosis is accurate.
Engaging MS specialists
Given the challenges of diagnosing MS, the prevalence of mimicking conditions and the constantly evolving diagnostic criteria, Kaisey and Al-Louzi recommend that patients who have MS or are newly diagnosed with MS see a specialist at least once to confirm their diagnosis and obtain an initial evaluation about a treatment strategy.
One way you can do this is through Cedars-Sinai‘s subspecialized MS experts. These experts have access to cutting-edge diagnostic tools, and when it comes to treatment, they are well-versed in the full spectrum of approved MS medications and their safety profiles, including infusions, which is a great way to find the treatment that works best for you.
“We can help make sure that the diagnosis is accurate, and we can help develop a treatment strategy that is tailored to each patient and keeps risks to a minimum,” Al-Louzi says.
There is no cure for MS, but with the right medicines, treatments and advancements in technology, you can live a long and successful life.