How is Arachnoiditis diagnosed?

See how Arachnoiditis is diagnosed. Which specialists are essential to meet, what tests are needed and other useful information for the diagnosis of Arachnoiditis


Arachnoiditis is a rare condition characterized by inflammation of the arachnoid, one of the membranes that surround and protect the nerves of the spinal cord. It can cause severe pain and neurological symptoms, often leading to disability and reduced quality of life for those affected.



Diagnosing arachnoiditis can be challenging as its symptoms can mimic those of other spinal conditions. A comprehensive evaluation is necessary to confirm the presence of arachnoiditis. The diagnostic process typically involves:




  1. Medical History: The first step in diagnosing arachnoiditis is a detailed discussion with the patient about their symptoms, medical history, and any potential risk factors. This helps the healthcare provider understand the context and guide further investigations.


  2. Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination is conducted to assess the patient's neurological function, reflexes, and any signs of spinal abnormalities. The healthcare provider may also perform specific tests to elicit pain or other symptoms.


  3. Imaging Studies: Various imaging techniques are employed to visualize the spinal cord and surrounding structures. These may include:



    • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI scans provide detailed images of the spinal cord and nerve roots. They can help identify any abnormalities, such as inflammation, adhesions, or cysts, which are indicative of arachnoiditis.


    • Myelogram: A myelogram involves injecting a contrast dye into the spinal canal, followed by X-rays or CT scans. This procedure can help visualize the spinal cord and nerve roots, highlighting any abnormalities.


    • Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: CT scans may be used to obtain cross-sectional images of the spine. They can help identify structural changes or abnormalities that may contribute to the symptoms.



  4. Electrodiagnostic Tests: These tests evaluate the electrical activity of the nerves and muscles. They can help determine if there is any nerve damage or dysfunction. The most commonly used electrodiagnostic tests include:



    • Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS): NCS measures the speed and strength of electrical signals as they travel along the nerves. Abnormal results may indicate nerve damage or compression.


    • Electromyography (EMG): EMG involves inserting fine needles into the muscles to assess their electrical activity. This test can help identify muscle dysfunction or nerve damage.



  5. Lumbar Puncture: In some cases, a lumbar puncture (also known as a spinal tap) may be performed. This involves inserting a needle into the lower back to collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for analysis. CSF analysis can help detect any signs of inflammation or infection.



It is important to note that arachnoiditis is a complex condition, and its diagnosis often requires the expertise of multiple healthcare professionals, including neurologists, radiologists, and pain specialists. The process may involve ruling out other potential causes of symptoms and considering the patient's clinical presentation as a whole.



If you suspect you may have arachnoiditis, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional who can guide you through the diagnostic process and develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your needs.


by Diseasemaps

MRIs are the safest way to detect Arachnoiditis. Many physicians request a myleogram for varification, but by puncturing the spinal cord like what happens during a myleogram procedure, it can make the disease progress. Mylograms are actually one of the causes of Arachnoiditis /adhesive Arachnoiditis.

5/9/19 by ASAP Arachnoiditis society for awareness and Prevention

Arachnoiditis as well as adhesive arachnoiditis are easily diagnosed with an MRI with contrast

4/5/17 by Josh 2600

The best way is through an MRI with or without contrast -- preferably without. A myelogram can diagnose it, but myelograms can also cause or worsen it. Direct observation during surgery can also diagnose it. There are no other diagnostic tests. Be aware that many medical professionals will deny or overlook its existence, especially if they may have caused it. Many just don't know what it is and will call it failed back surgery syndrome, sciatica, spinal stenosis, etc. Make sure your diagnostician is well-versed in Arachnoiditis, its signs and symptoms.

4/7/17 by Barbara 1000

Arachnoiditis is diagnosed by MRI and assessing symptoms, although not all radiologists or neurosurgeons, etc are very familiar with it, or they may call it something else like "neuro-inflammation", etc.

4/11/17 by Kelly 5450

MRI is the best way to diagnose arschnoiditis. Preferably with contrast but not necessary with a trained radiologist. It is equally important to be diagnosed by a provider who find your symptoms match the MRI results

5/18/19 by nancy 2500

MRI or Cat scan Depending on ur medical team .. neurosurgeon, orthopaedic or back specialist I had a physiatrist to support me thru the process Many dr’s have limited knowledge of the condition & symptoms

1/5/20 by Jcrandall72 2500

Arachnoiditis is rare, so it may require many tests and take some time to diagnose. There is no standard test for arachnoiditis, but imaging tests may be used. These include: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Computerised Axial Tomography (CAT) scan An electromyogram (EMG) may also be used to determine the severity of the damage. This test uses electrical impulses to check how well the nerves are functioning. The Medical Professionals/Specialists that are essential for those diagnosed with Arachnoiditis to seek care once they have been diagnosed are: Pain management specialists Physiotherapists Psychotherapists Neurosurgeon

1/5/20 by Staplehurst17 4050

Arachnoiditis can be diagnosised with an mri or cat scan.

1/5/20 by Deerut1963 2400

Adhesive arachnoiditis is diagnosed by MRI. Contrast is preferred, but AA can be seen without at times.

1/8/20 by Rhonda 1600

YES Rhonda is correct it takes no contrast for MRI to diagnose, mine never use it.

5/1/20 by KenNwv 500

MRI, (without contrast or gad) nerve conduction tests and potentials and neurological and physical examination

7/9/20 by Derek 3000

Medical history as well as MRI with contrast

3/20/21 by Anna 2300

With an MRI full spine with or without contrast.

7/22/21 by Vincent 3420

It is diagnosed from a MRI or CT Scan.

11/15/21 by Jeanne Champion 400

Typically, Arachnoiditis is seenon Contrast MRI using a Tesla 3 or higher. However, research indicates that MRdoes not correlate with the disease symptoms and severity . In fact,research shows poor intra reader Correlation. In one study, 5 radiologists were challenged to read the same series of MRIs. For arachnoiditis, only the 2 most senior Radiologists had good correlation as to their diagnosis, with little mutual consensus by the other 3. This leads us to believe Arachnoiditis is under reported and its rarity is a result. It is not "rare", but "rarely diagnosed."

11/15/21 by ACMCRN 2200

MRI w/contrast preferably on a Tesla 3 or better

11/16/21 by patdrury@mail.com 700

Dye injected into spine, MRI with contrast. I believe this to missed by most physicians as they are not properly trained to look at nerves. They are only looking for something they can surgically repair. I may be wrong, but they cover up surgical errors like lumbar punctures.

1/7/22 by Machinetoolmkr 5550

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