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Up to 20% of MS diagnoses are wrong, like Christina Applegate's. Here's what doctors say patients should know.
CBS News • • general
Key Points:
- Actress Christina Applegate revealed she was misdiagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) after years of believing she had the condition, highlighting a common issue where nearly 1 in 5 MS diagnoses may be incorrect.
- MS diagnosis is challenging due to the lack of a single definitive test and the variability of symptoms, with brain lesions often misinterpreted; advanced imaging and spinal fluid analysis are critical for accurate diagnosis.
- Experts estimate that 15-20% of patients diagnosed with MS do not actually have the disease, as symptoms overlap with other conditions like fibromyalgia, migraines, autoimmune disorders, and chronic pain syndromes.
- New diagnostic criteria published in 2025 aim to improve accuracy, emphasizing the importance of precise interpretation of brain lesions to avoid misdiagnosis and enable appropriate treatment.
- Patients concerned about their diagnosis are encouraged to seek second opinions, preferably from MS specialists, to ensure correct diagnosis and access to proper care and resources.
