Present evidence from both regular MRI and specialized techniques show that far more patients had lesions in the spinal cord than we previously thought. Because these studies have just not been done, I cannot give you a definite percentage. MS does not cause inflammation in the usual sense and there is very little swelling. After the acute attack there usually remains a residual scar. My MRI brain and spine, are still negative, yet I continue to see a slight decline from year to year in balance, vision and weakness.
Magnetization transfer is the most sensitive.
Many radiologists do not allow sufficient time after the Gadolinium injection to show blood-brain barrier breakdown which indicates active or new lesions. At least 20 minutes are required. READ MORE FAQs. This material is provided as general medical information only and may not include all side effects or details relevant to a particular individual's treatment. Boards, Forums and Chat Questions by People with MS Answers by caring Neurologists.