[Pseudoradicular syndrome in multiple sclerosis. 4 cases diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging]

Four patients with multiple sclerosis presented with pseudoradicular limb pain. There was a limb weakness with sensory loss and areflexia. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a demyelinating plaque in the cervical cord with a characteristic T2 relaxation time. A direct relationship between the plaque and the clinical troubles was established in all cases. Treatment with corticosteroids was helpful, and other treatments (carbamazepine) were not necessary. The mechanisms of such pain are unknown but some of the symptoms may be the result of lesions in the endogenous pain control system.