Understanding MRI changes: brain lesions and brain atrophy
During your check-up, your neurologist will ask about your symptoms and your ability to function. But that's just one piece of the puzzle. Even when you are not having symptoms, MS may be causing silent damage to your brain that can increase your risk of progression later on.
An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan can help show this hidden damage and monitor the course of MS. Markers that can show up on an MRI scan include brain lesions and brain atrophy.
Brain lesions
Brain lesions are areas of the brain that have been damaged by inflammation related to MS.
Brain atrophy
Brain atrophy is another word for brain shrinkage caused by MS. People with brain atrophy may be more likely to have MS-related cognitive problems. Brain atrophy can happen early in the disease, and damage can be happening even when a person has no symptoms.
What can I do?
- Use the MS Fact vs Myth to help you learn some quick facts about MS.
- Use the MS Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire to find out if it's time to talk to your neurologist about optimal treatment.
- Learn more about your MS treatment options.
- Bring the MS Doctor Discussion Guide to your neurologist visit to help you gather your questions and concerns about MS.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2024. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/Measuring-MS-Disease-Markers
