Researchers develop better way to track MS

[MSUK]

What if an MRI scan could detect damage caused by Multiple Sclerosis at an early stage?

Researchers at Western University have developed a way to better track MS progression in patients by looking at damage in brain areas common to all MS patients.

The technique is called Quantitative Susceptibility Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)..... Read More - http://www.ms-uk.org/medicalimaging

[HarryZ]

All this being done less than 20 mins from where I live!! The MS Clinic here in London ON (which my wife used the entire time she had MS even when we lived in Toronto) is very good and quite innovative. Too bad they didn't have this kind of technology when she got first diagnosed back in 1971. Sure hope this research can provide a big help to early MS victims.

[MattN]

I assume there could be some concerns about the pitfalls of increased monitoring and treatment. While there is clearly an upside there is often a downside in terms of false positive tests, and treatments and drugs administered triggered by such a test. Perhaps similar to argument that goes in terms of mammography and rally detection for that disease

[HarryZ]

I assume there could be some concerns about the pitfalls of increased monitoring and treatment. While there is clearly an upside there is often a downside in terms of false positive tests, and treatments and drugs administered triggered by such a test. Perhaps similar to argument that goes in terms of mammography and rally detection for that disease

Good point! We know the main focus on MS research/treatment has been the auto-immune theory. If this new MRI test can determine an early diagnosis, then will the MS docs push for all kinds of drugs that follow this theory? If there is another mechanism causing the inflammation and immune system reaction, then the only thing the use of these drugs will likely accomplish is more profit for the drug companies.

I can imagine these companies are already rubbing their hands at such a prospective. As often with this disease, one step forward and then two steps back. Let's hope the test can be used very positively.