This Is MS Multiple Sclerosis Community: Knowledge & Support

Thanks to information I've obtained from this site, and the exceptional contributions of Anecdote (Sarah) and others...I have just now started on an antibiotic regime, in fact, on my third day. My question is, I've started the antibiotics through assistance of my GP. I have an upcoming MRI and appointment scheduled with a neurologist at the MS clinic. If the neurologist recommends that based on the MRI I start on one of the CRABS, do I have to make a choice between that and the antibiotic treatment?? Or can I do both at same time?? Also, I know I have asked Sarah this, but can I confirm, the antibiotics for CpN would also deal with other potential stuff, such as lyme, correct? Its the same regime that has helped Katie45 so much? I apologize for asking again, I'm trying to absorb a lot of information all at once...

I had an equivocal Lyme test from IGenex and have been concerned about Lyme as well. (I have several risk factors).

Lyme shares one interesting quality with CPn; it has a "cryptic" form it can retreat to when under attack from antibiotics such as doxycycline, rifampin, etc. Luckily this cryptic form is killed by Flagyl (metronidazole). Thus this regimen should be effective for Lyme.

If you have the resources, it might be worth your while to get an Igenex Western Blot for Lyme (about $220 American)- but conventional wisdom is that this test is more accurate after you've had 2-3 months of antibiotics.

Did your doctor run a Lyme ELISA? It's a terrible test, but it does give some information.

Basically, what gets rid of CPn also works with the borellia that causes lyme and many other 'cryptic' forms.

If your neurologist recommends you try one of the CRABS, its up to you. There is no reason why you should not do both. Many people who are seeing David had already started on betaseron or whatever, so carry on, either so as not to antagonise the neurologist or as an attempt to cover all eventualities!

Sarah

I beg the pardon of anyone if I run over toes learning to use thuis but I am so thrilled to fbe directed to this site that I am jumping in.

I have PP and have been on David Wheldon's regomen quite rigidly for 9 1/2 months. I was tempted last week to postpone my Avonex by a day but by the due ttime I realized it would reise my level of function significantly so will stay with it for now.

We must make much noise as a group. This may only work for some of us but these are not expensive or dangerous drugs and for those for whom they work it is in no way a difficult choice.One of my favorite wacky sayings is Yogi Berra's- If you come to a fork in the road, take it.

Katman

I know now who directed you! And this person thinks you are writing far more confidently than when you first wrote to him, because I showed him your last posting. So carry on jumping.

Avonex is no problem, because it does in actual fact, inhibit CPn production.

Perhaps you should use Yogi Berri's quote as your signature!

Sarah

_________________
An Itinerary in Light and Shadow Completed Dr Charles Stratton / Dr David Wheldon abx regime for aggressive secondary progressive MS in June 2007, after four years. Still improving with no relapses since starting. Can't run but can paint all day.

This, I say again, is unreal. This experience has been one of the three or four most memorable in my life. The day I met my husband and the day I got in the orchestra are the other top two that come to mind. You and your husband are very special people.

Enough! I love your suggestion about signature and will attempt same.

I believe all of us (MS sufferers) should have the choice about whether we want to do this. Thank you for all your information.

Katman