KY
A 39-year-old female asked:
What can cause brain atrophy diagnosis at 34 during mri for ms. i suffer from short term memory loss, can this be caused from the atrophy?
2 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in

Dr. Bennett Machanicanswered
Neurology 54 years experience
Not uncommon: Brain atrophy not uncommon, as at least 65% of all ms pts will develop some cognitive problems, but important to emphasize that some medications can control and maybe reverse. The oral med Gilenya (fingolimod) may be a good choice for you, as atrophy data best on market to date(but "off label" currently). My colleagues across the country have had best symptom relief with generic galantamine. Hope it works.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. William Gaya commented
Neurology 31 years experience
Data on Gilenya was just presented in the American Academy of Neurology. In contrast to Galantamine, Namenda IS NOT recommended In MS.
Mar 29, 2013

Dr. William Gayaanswered
Neurology 31 years experience
Brain atrophy: I am sorry to hear about the memory problems. This is common in multiple sclerosis and yes, it correlates with the brain atrophy. Available therapy may help in slowing down the degree of progressive atrophy it occurs in ms. New data presented by Gilenya (fingolimod) (fingilimod) suggest it helps in this particular problem. Donepezil may help the symptoms of memory problems. Memantine is not recommended in ms.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Bennett Machanic commented
Neurology 54 years experience
Anecdotally, galantamine, may be useful in handling some of the cognitive issues, but have not had any real success with usual Alzheimer's items.
Mar 31, 2013
Last updated Jun 25, 2019
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