Neurological Mystery

Tim's latest MRI showed no change in his brain. It's not good news that things aren't getting better and the doctors aren't sure at this point if they ever will. At least the MRI didn't show things getting worse. The doctors also ordered an EEG. The results reflect some abnormal brain activity, which is not unexpected, but not of any pattern to suggest a diagnosis. The neurologist stopped by today to do a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). He is ordering a bunch of tests on Tim's spinal fluid. They want to rule out leukemia in the fluid. They will also test for viruses and fungal infections. The doctor doesn't really expect any of these to be positive, since they've tested for all this before, but they need to be sure. The doctors upped Tim's steroid dose again, and he's slightly more alert, but still extremely lethargic. He lays in bed all day and never really becomes fully awake.