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Is it necessary to have MRIs of the brain AND the spinal cord to obtain a diagnosis of MS?

April 26, 2017brain Cord diagnosis MRIs MS necessary obtain Spinal

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Is it necessary to have MRIs of the brain AND the spinal cord to obtain a diagnosis of MS?

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MS attacks the myelin in the brain and the spinal cord. Most myelin is in the brain, so it is more likely that lesions will be found there. The MRI examination is used to confirm the presence of lesions. The neurologist does not need to see them all to reach a diagnosis of MS. Also, a brain scan takes 30 minutes, while a scan of the spinal cord takes 60 to 90 minutes. If the brain scans are conclusive, it is not necessary to explore the spinal cord.