Christina Applegate reveals MS diagnosis was wrong, but symptoms persist
Christina Applegate announced on October 20 that her 2021 multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis was incorrect. Despite the correction, her debilitating symptoms remain unchanged, leaving her without a definitive medical explanation. Experts note that up to 20% of MS diagnoses are wrong, often due to misinterpreted brain scans or overlapping symptoms from other conditions.
Key points
- Applegate disclosed the misdiagnosis on her podcast 'MeSsy,' stating her symptoms have not improved and may have worsened.
- Dr. Marwa Kaisey of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center stated that nearly 1 in 5 people diagnosed with MS do not actually have the disease.
- Dr. Robert Brumel of Cleveland Clinic noted that misdiagnoses often occur when brain lesions are misinterpreted, as they can be caused by migraines, high blood pressure, or smoking.
- New diagnostic criteria published in 2025 aim to reduce misdiagnosis rates by requiring more specific interpretation of brain lesions.
- Applegate’s condition has affected her career, including her departure from the Netflix series 'Dead to Me' in 2022.
Background
Applegate has been a prominent advocate for MS since her 2021 diagnosis, authoring a memoir and hosting a podcast with fellow MS patient Jamie-Lynn Sigler. Her recent revelation highlights the challenges in diagnosing MS, a condition where the immune system attacks the central nervous system. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society notes that symptoms vary widely, making diagnosis complex without a single confirmatory test.
How outlets are covering it
CBS News and CNN both emphasize the emotional impact on Applegate, who described feeling 'back at square one' after learning her diagnosis was wrong. The New York Times focused on the lack of immediate relief, noting that her symptoms persisted despite the corrected diagnosis. NBC News highlighted the broader issue of misdiagnosis, citing studies that show 15-20% of MS patients are misdiagnosed. Dr. Josef Gutman of NYU Langone stressed that MS diagnosis relies on a combination of symptoms, MRI imaging, and spinal fluid analysis, unlike conditions with a single definitive test. Dr. Kaisey noted the tension between early treatment and accurate diagnosis, while Dr. Brumel emphasized the importance of second opinions and advanced testing to ensure correct diagnoses.
Why it matters
This case underscores the risks of misdiagnosis in complex neurological conditions and the importance of accurate diagnostic criteria. It also highlights the need for patients to seek second opinions and specialized care, as misdiagnoses can lead to unnecessary treatments and delayed identification of the true cause of symptoms. The 2025 diagnostic criteria aim to improve accuracy, but challenges remain in differentiating MS from other conditions with similar symptoms.
What to watch
Applegate’s doctors are investigating the true cause of her symptoms, which may include autoimmune conditions, fibromyalgia, migraines, or chronic pain syndromes. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society maintains a registry of MS specialists and care centers to help patients find appropriate resources. Patients are encouraged to seek second opinions and advanced testing if they suspect a misdiagnosis.
- Up to 20% of MS diagnoses are wrong, like Christina Applegate's. Here's what doctors say patients should know. CBS News
- ‘Back at Square One’: Christina Applegate Says Her M.S. Was Misdiagnosed The New York Times
- Why many MS patients like Christina Applegate are misdiagnosed NBC News
- Christina Applegate, a leading MS advocate, says doctors found she doesn’t have the disease after all CNN
- Christina Applegate says she was misdiagnosed with multiple sclerosis The Washington Post
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