The Differential Diagnosis of Multiple SclerosisRolak, Loren A. MD*; Fleming, John O. MD†The Neurologist: March 2007 - Volume 13 - Issue 2 - p 57-72 doi: 10.1097/01.nrl.0000254705.39956.34 Review Buy Abstract Author InformationAuthors Article MetricsMetrics Objective: This article will discuss the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS), with particular attention to differentiating it from other diseases that can mimic it. Methods: We reviewed our own data, as well as the published experience on the differential diagnosis of MS and the most common errors leading to misdiagnosis. Results: Psychiatric diseases are mistaken for multiple sclerosis more often than any other conditions. Other multifocal illnesses or white-matter diseases are seldom confused with multiple sclerosis. Conclusion: Neurologists are most likely to misdiagnose multiple sclerosis in patients who have psychiatric problems or who have uncommon presentations of common diseases such as migraine, stroke, or neuropathies. From the *Marshfield Multiple Sclerosis Center, Marshfield Clinic, Marshfield, Wisconsin; and †Neurology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin. The authors declare no conflicts of interest. Reprints: Loren A. Rolak, MD, Marshfield Clinic, 1000 N. Oak Avenue, Marshfield, WI 54449. E-mail: rolak.loren@marshfieldclinic.org. © 2007 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.
