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Cited by 100Multiple Sclerosis Research StudiesClinical Reasoning and Diagnostic SkillsRadiology practices and education

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Misdiagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis: Frequency, Causes, Effects, and Prevention

Solomon, Andrew J., Weinshenker, Brian G.·2013·Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports
DOI 10.1007/s11910-013-0403-y
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Abstract

A diagnosis of multiple sclerosis is heavily influenced by clinical judgment. Misdiagnosis of multiple sclerosis is common and has important consequences for patients and the cost of healthcare. Although rigorous data about the frequency and causes of misdiagnosis are lacking, misinterpretation and misapplication of clinical and radiographic diagnostic criteria and terminology are likely important factors. Appropriate and stringent application of diagnostic criteria and continued vigilance for "red flags" suggesting alternative diagnoses are strategies critical for prevention of misdiagnosis.

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Crossref · 10.1007/s11910-013-0403-y

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  • Advances in MRI, serological and genetic tests have greatly helped in distinguishing MS from conditions that mimic it, but misdiagnosis can occur.

    “Advances in MRI, serological and genetic tests have greatly helped in distinguishing MS from these conditions, but misdiagnosis can occur.”

    From Diagnosis of multiple sclerosis: progress and challenges (2017) · cites this paper as [63]

  • These disorders usually present quite differently to MS and reasons for misdiagnosis included misinterpretation of clinical findings (symptoms not typical of demyelination, absence of objective neurological signs) and inappropriate application of MRI criteria.

    “These disorders usually present quite differently to MS and reasons for misdiagnosis included misinterpretation of clinical findings (symptoms not typical of demyelination, absence of objective neurological signs) and inappropriate application of MRI criteria.63”

    From Diagnosis of multiple sclerosis: progress and challenges (2017) · cites this paper as [63]

  • Rates of misdiagnosis of MS may be as high as 10%.

    “Rates of misdiagnosis of MS may be as high as 10%.63”

    From Diagnosis of multiple sclerosis: progress and challenges (2017) · cites this paper as [63]

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Metadata

Authors
Solomon, A. J., & Weinshenker, B. G.
Affiliations
  • University of Vermont (US)
  • Mayo Clinic (US)
Corresponding author
Solomon, Andrew J.
ORCID
Venue
Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Published
2013-10-20
Volume
13
Issue
12
Pages
403-403
ISSN
  • 1528-4042 (ISSN-L)
  • 1534-6293
DOI
10.1007/s11910-013-0403-y
OpenAlex
W1971211819
Cited by
100
References
2
Citations by year
2026: 5 · 2025: 5 · 2024: 10 · 2023: 5 · 2022: 5 · 2021: 6 · 2020: 11 · 2019: 12 · 2018: 11 · 2017: 12 · 2016: 12 · 2015: 6
FWCI
0.88
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
closed
Licence
www.springer.com/tdm (tdm)
Locations
  • Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports (publishedVersion)
  • PubMed (publishedVersion)
Topics
  • Health Sciences › Medicine › Clinical Neurology › Multiple Sclerosis Research Studies
  • Health Sciences › Medicine › Family Practice › Clinical Reasoning and Diagnostic Skills
  • Health Sciences › Medicine › Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Imaging › Radiology practices and education
Keywords
multiple sclerosis, misdiagnosis, diagnostic criteria, red flags, clinical judgment, diagnostic terminology, health care costs
MeSH terms
Diagnostic Errors, Humans, Multiple Sclerosis

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