Which diagnostic test is used to detect active inflammation in MS?

• A. MRI with gadolinium.
• B. Routine blood glucose.
• C. Electroencephalography.
• D. CT head without contrast.

Answer: (A)

Detecting active inflammation in MS relies on visualizing where the blood-brain barrier is disrupted. Gadolinium contrast on MRI highlights these areas because it leaks into inflamed, demyelinating tissue and appears as enhancement on T1-weighted images. This makes MRI with gadolinium the most sensitive way to identify new or active lesions and to monitor disease activity and response to therapy. Other options don’t specifically show active CNS inflammation: routine blood glucose is a metabolic test, EEG assesses brain electrical activity, and CT head without contrast is not as sensitive for demyelinating plaques or BBB disruption.