Brain MRI

[JAM]

Reason for brain MRI at this point??

PAL’s dx 9/5/24. We saw a new Neuro last week at a research hospital. We are hoping that will help with getting into possible trials when available and we’re looking for a better fit. Liked her very much! She has ordered a brain MRI l, (1st neuro did not order). I’m curious as to what that would show- it seems very evident my PAL’s has ALS. Also his EMG showed lower motor neuron abnormalities.

What diagnostic help would a brain MRI at this point show? He is sharp, no mental decline, so I don’t think it’s for Frontal lobal dementia???

It seems like a lot to go through if it won’t add much.
TIA.

 

[Nikki J]

It sounds like she is being thorough. It is considered part of the rule out. My sister’s second opinion ordered another test too though it was a blood test.

I am glad you like this doctor better

 

[KAD]

It's up to you two regarding whether you want to proceed with a brain MRI. There are no signs of ALS that will show up on a brain scan at this point. In addition, if your pALS only has lower motor neuron signs, that does not implicate issues in the brain. MRIs can be used to rule out other issues as Nikki notes.

I declined any neuroimaging because my EMG was classic ALS (and because I'm an expert in neuroanatomy and neurological disorders =). It didn't feel like a useful test to me. But for those who would like to have more information it can be an option and many people feel more comfortable using all the available tests.

 

[JAM]

Right. His EMG was also classical ALS- which is probably why his 1st neuro did not order the brain MRI. In fact, I think he was so classical ALS no other testing was really done (aside from blood lab work). I don’t think we will do the brain MRI bc I don’t think it will shed any light.

 

[lgelb]

I would ask the neuro what she feels the indication for it is. Sometimes it can relate to trial eligibility (to have all ruleouts done) or other research.

 

[JAM]

^ very good point Laurie! Yes, I will ask.

 

[Derbyram21]

Hi There
I was diagnosed 4 years ago 3months later I had a full body and head MRI one of the things it picked up on was I had had a silent stroke and that was only disclosed when I was admitted to hospital last year. That's the only feedback I got x

 

[Finndoodle]

Before my husband was diagnosed he had an MRI to rule out any chance of a stroke as his early symptoms were slurring speech and mild right weakness..l

 

[RandyL]

When I was diagnosed they did the MRI to rule out a stroke, brain tumour, or pinched nerves in the cervical spine. Don't normally wish for a positive MRI, but at least those findings could have been treated.