SPECIALIZED MS IMAGING

Specialized MRI for Multiple Sclerosis – Earlier Detection, More Accurate Diagnosis

Modern MRI techniques help us detect multiple sclerosis (MS) at an early stage and distinguish it from other diseases.

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. It causes inflammatory lesions in the brain, spinal cord, and, in some cases, the optic nerve.

Using the McDonald Criteria, revised in 2024—the international guidelines for diagnosing multiple sclerosis—we can take additional MRI features into account and, in certain cases, diagnose the disease earlier and more reliably.

Our specialized diagnostic procedures

• Targeted examination of the optic nerves: Inflammation of the optic nerve can be an early sign of multiple sclerosis. Using specialized MRI scans, we can visualize changes in the optic nerves. These findings are now also taken into account in the diagnostic process.

• Visualization of the smallest blood vessels within inflammatory lesions (Central Vein Sign): Using a specialized MRI technique (SWI), we can detect the smallest veins within certain changes in brain tissue. This characteristic pattern can help distinguish MS-related inflammatory lesions from changes caused by other factors.

• Detection of chronically active inflammatory lesions (Paramagnetic Rim Lesions): Some MS lesions show a characteristic rim on specialized MRI images. This may indicate prolonged inflammatory activity and provides additional information about the disease.

• High-resolution 3D MRI images: Particularly detailed images allow us to detect even small inflammatory lesions and accurately assess their distribution in the brain.

Why is specialized MRI important?

Not every change in the brain automatically means multiple sclerosis. Other diseases can also cause similar MRI images.

The new imaging techniques provide additional clues to confirm the diagnosis more reliably and minimize the risk of misdiagnosis with other conditions.

An early and reliable diagnosis allows us to work with the neurology department to decide on an appropriate treatment in a timely manner and reduce the risk of further nerve damage.

In collaboration with the neurology department

The MRI results are evaluated in conjunction with the patient’s symptoms, the neurological examination, and, if necessary, additional tests. No single MRI finding on its own proves multiple sclerosis.

Our goal: To detect multiple sclerosis as early and reliably as possible—for targeted treatment and the long-term preservation of quality of life.

Scientific Basis: McDonald Criteria 2024

Multiple Sclerosis – Early Treatment, Close Monitoring

Regular MRI scans help us detect multiple sclerosis (MS) activity early on, assess the success of treatment, and identify potential side effects of therapy in a timely manner.

In multiple sclerosis, new areas of inflammation can develop in the brain or spinal cord without those affected immediately noticing any symptoms. Using modern MRI techniques, we can visualize such changes early on and reliably monitor the course of the disease.

When is an MRI with contrast dye necessary?

During the initial examination and to investigate possible multiple sclerosis, the administration of a contrast agent is often advisable. This allows us to determine whether certain inflammatory lesions are currently active.

The administration of contrast medium may also be necessary in cases of unclear changes or specific medical concerns.

When can contrast agents be omitted?

During regular follow-up examinations for stable multiple sclerosis, the use of contrast agents is often not necessary.

Using high-resolution MRI images, we can identify new or enlarged inflammatory lesions and compare the images with those from previous examinations.

Why are early diagnosis and treatment important?

The earlier multiple sclerosis is detected and effectively treated, the better we can limit further inflammatory damage.

Modern medications can reduce disease activity, prevent new relapses, and lower the risk of long-term neurological impairments.

MRI plays an important role in this process: It helps us assess the effectiveness of treatment and detect early on when a change in therapy might be necessary.

Safety During Treatment – Early Detection of PML

In rare cases, some highly effective MS medications can increase the risk of a serious viral infection of the brain. This condition is known as progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML).

Using specialized MRI scans, we can look for early signs of such an infection—sometimes even before the first symptoms appear.

How often these checkups are necessary depends, among other things, on the medication used and the individual’s risk profile.

Close Collaboration with Neurology

The results of our MRI scans are evaluated in collaboration with the treating neurologists. In doing so, we take into account the patient’s symptoms, previous treatment, and individual risk factors.

Our goal: to detect disease activity early, reliably monitor treatment success, and support treatment as safely as possible—for a better quality of life in the long term.