Radiologically isolated syndrome: managing the preclinical phase of MS

What should a neurologist do when a routine MRI for migraine reveals incidental white matter lesions that look remarkably like Multiple Sclerosis (MS), despite the patient having no neurological symptoms? The Editors' Choice paper for the April 2026 issue of Practical Neurology is a practical guide to the clinical diagnosis and management of radiologically isolated syndrome (RIS). Author Dr. Audrey Reynolds¹ joins PN podcast editor Dr. Amy Ross Russell to discuss her work on how updated diagnostic criteria and advanced imaging markers now enable a more proactive, biological approach to the disease. Their discussion highlights the importance of risk stratification - using tools like CSF analysis and spinal imaging - to identify those most likely to benefit from early intervention with disease-modifying therapies. They also examine the delicate balance between preventing future disability and avoiding misdiagnosis in this rapidly evolving area of neurology.

Read the paper: Radiologically isolated syndrome: a practical guide.

(1) St Vincent’s University Hospital, Dublin; University College Dublin, Ireland

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This episode was hosted by PN's podcast editor Dr. Amy Ross Russell. Production by Amy Ross Russell and  Brian O'Toole. Editing by Brian O'Toole. Thank you for listening.