The diagnosis of MS is usually made by a neurologist from the patient's medical history, neurologic examination, and laboratory tests. The laboratory tests may include a spinal tap (lumbar puncture), evoked potentials (EP), blood tests, and brain or spinal MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). Spinal fluid is analyzed for immunologic changes such as oligoclonal bands and an excess of myelin basic protein. The evoked potential response is a test done by a computer measurement of the pattern of responses to auditory, sensory, and visual stimuli. In people with MS, the response pattern is usually slowed. MRI studies have emerged as a leading indicator to help differentiate MS from other conditions, and are often conducted very early in the diagnostic process. Images of the brain and spinal cord are made by means of a large magnet, radio frequency pulses, and a computer. In some cases, patients undergoing MRI will have a dye (gadolinium) injected into their veins at the time of the test. This dye is used to make areas of current activity more brightly illuminated on the MRI scan than lesions that are inactive or quiet. Many current clinical research trials are now using serial MRI scans to help prove the benefit of new therapies and people with MS are often encouraged to have updated MRIs done every two to three years to track the course of the disease.

In the not so distant past, many claims were made for treatments thought to “cure” MS. These included mercury, arsenic, high fever therapy (induced by active malaria virus), aspirin, organ extracts, frequent spinal taps, Coumadin, alcohol, X-rays, and surgery on the spine. All of the above plus additional treatments such as transfer factor, vertebral artery surgery, snake and honeybee venom, highly specialized diets, removal of dental fillings, and calcium orotate have no proven benefit and some may be dangerous. Caution should be taken when entertaining any treatment for MS without data demonstrating its effectiveness and safety.

At the present time no cure exists for multiple sclerosis. However, some new immune system modulating treatments have been FDA approved to reduce attacks and reduce disability in some forms of MS. Also, treatments for MS symptoms are numerous. The practice of good health habits can also improve a patient's quality of life. They include:

• a sensible blend of activity and rest
  
  
• nutritious diet
  
  
• a good mental attitude
  
  
• willingness to change priorities
  
  
• a strong support system