Diagnosis of vasculitis with a clear MRI

[annie330]

This question was asked on Facebook and I am really interested to see people's replies so would be grateful for any comments.

Thanks

Louise

[John_Mills Volunteer]

Can you explain more about this odd question that was asked on FB.

MRI scans, like Xrays, are an excellent aid to diagnosis but they are not a miracle tool that shows every disease.

[PatriciaAnn]

I've had various scans - I even went today (Saturday) for one on my sinuses. My consultant uses these as a guide to what's happening, not as the final word. I've always understood that the ANCA test is a good "guide" but it can produce false positive and negative results. I've had a negative ANCA result and felt like death warmed up, I've beeN positive and felt really well - OK, "really well" is an exaggeration, but I haven't felt bad. However I understand that it is a biopsy of the affected area which gives the best indication of whether vasculitis is present or not.

PatriciaAnn