Multiple sclerosis: new techniques in earlier diagnosis.

Improved laboratory methods provide an objective means of evaluating the central nervous system, and give supporting evidence in the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. Measurement of gamma globulins and identification of oligoclonal bands in the cerebrospinal fluid are reliable indicators. Visual, auditory, and sensory evoked responses reveal a high instance of abnormalities in MS, and may establish the existence of asymptomatic lesions, providing additional evidence in early cases. The enhanced CT scan detects cerebral lesions consistent with the diagnosis. The laboratory methods are incorporated in the new classification and diagnostic criteria of multiple sclerosis.