Harmonizing Magnetic Resonance Imaging Protocols for Veterans With Multiple Sclerosis.

Background: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) assists with the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS), allows for timely therapeutic intervention, and for the evaluation of disease progression, treatment effect, and safety. An international task force including representatives from the Veterans Health Administration worked together to update guidelines for imaging the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerve in people with MS. Observations: This commentary communicates the core message of the 2021 MAGNIMS-CMSC-NAIMS Consensus Recommendations on the Use of MRI in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis as part of the MS Center of Excellence effort to align with contemporary guidelines, apply the highest scientific standards, and achieve consistent outcomes for veterans with MS. To implement and disseminate these proposed recommendations within the Veterans Health Administration, a workgroup was formed at the end of 2020, which discussed a modified version of the 2021 MRI Guidelines to accommodate US Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers that had fewer imaging resources as well as veterans' needs. Conclusions: Standardized MRI protocols are fundamental for the care of veterans with MS. Mitigating interscan variabilities is recognized as a priority by scientific and clinical expert committees.