So I have been reading and keep coming accross that it is important to get some baseline MRIs done. I requested that I get a STIR Sequence MRI from my GP. I have been diagnosed for over a year now. The main areas that I would like looked are my neck/back and Left arm/elbow. Has anyone else had this done? What have you experiences been? Did things show up? I question because I have had other test done that have not really shown anything and part of me thinks why waste the time or the insurance money?
Baseline MRI's? Why? I've had some baseline x-rays done, but MRI's only when necessary.
Would having MRI's done change the management of your disease? That's usually a good question to ask for any test. Does it give necessary information? Let us know what your doctor thinks.
I have not had any MRI's for PsA related problems. I had one last year when I injured my foot, which showed changes, as well as the injury, but that;s it.
The whole stir sequence MRI thing is mostly and internet thing started by folks looking to get a diagnoses of Ankylosing spondylitis. the believe that stir sequences which are a fat negating signal is a bit more accurate for finding inflammation. (not that it is the grade 2 sacroiliitis needed for an AS DX) As many of us develop a bit of girth in the rear end, the radiologist will often ask for stir sequences to get a clearer picture of the SIs
I don't know of many rheumys who use MRIs for baseline usually for PsA IF they do baselines its flat radiographs of hand or feet or both. Soft tissue change are pretty meaningless. MRIs for specific diagnostic questions