2023-07-17 23:33:45
MRI Examinations Continue to Play a Crucial Role in MS Treatment, Say Experts
In the field of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) treatment, MRI examinations have long been recognized as essential for both diagnosis and therapy. According to experts Marc Pawlitzki and Sven G. Meuth, MRI diagnostics offer not only high diagnostic accuracy but also therapeutic value for the care of MS patients.
Recent developments in diagnostic criteria have further emphasized the importance of MRI in MS treatment. With an appropriate distribution of MS-typical demyelination foci in the initial cranial and spinal MRI, the diagnosis of MS can already be made after the first clinical episode. However, there must also be evidence of a contrast medium-enhancing lesion to confirm the temporal dynamics criterion.
While a suitable cerebrospinal fluid finding can replace the contrast medium-enhancing lesion criterion, experts caution against dispensing with contrast medium administration altogether. Data from the MS register of the DMSG (German Multiple Sclerosis Society) shows a positive trend when international recommendations for prompt implementation are followed, resulting in an optimization of previous MRI examinations and a reduction in unnecessary contrast agent administration.
Nevertheless, current recommendations highlight the prerequisites for optimal monitoring using MRI. These include standardized MRI protocols that enable good comparability with previous images and regular cranial MRI scans, particularly to detect insidious disease activity.
When evaluating the success of initiated immunotherapy through MRI follow-up, caution is advised. Experts suggest considering an MRI examination three to six months after the therapy initiation as the initial finding for comparison with further MRI controls. As the disease progresses, the administration of contrast medium is usually discontinued, as studies have shown an age-dependent decrease in contrast medium-enhancing lesions in MS.
However, experts note that the administration of a contrast agent can still be considered, especially if secondary chronic progression is suspected, as it can help identify any present inflammatory activity.
Overall, the importance of MRI examinations in MS treatment cannot be overstated. With the right protocols and regular monitoring, healthcare professionals can provide optimal care to MS patients and make informed decisions regarding therapy and disease progression.]
#Recommendations #administration #contrast #media #MRI #diagnostics #multiple #sclerosis #DMSG