Neuroimmunology
Wellstar neuroimmunologists specialize in diagnosing and helping people manage conditions, such as muscular dystrophy, so they can live a better life.
Expert Care for Neuroimmune Conditions
When someone has a neuroimmune disorder like multiple sclerosis (MS), the immune system attacks the central nervous system—the brain, spine or optic nerve. These neuroimmune conditions lead to inflammation, causing mobility problems, muscle weakness, numbness, tingling, fatigue and pain.
At Wellstar, neuroimmunologists lead a multidisciplinary team to care for people with neuroimmune conditions. These specialized neurologists have additional training and expertise on how the nervous system and immune system relate to each other. Our neuroimmunologists stay current on the latest research so they can offer a full range of treatment options. Because every patient is unique, they create personalized treatment plans for each individual.
Getting Diagnosed
Because symptoms vary greatly, most neuroimmune conditions cannot be diagnosed with a specific test. Instead, patients have a differential diagnosis. That’s where all the other possible conditions that could cause your symptoms are ruled out first. When tests eliminate the other conditions from the list, the doctor can circle back to the possibility of a neuroimmune condition. Your neuroimmunologist will begin this process with a thorough examination and review of your medical history. Most tests are done in a lab or your neurologist’s office and do not require an inpatient stay in the hospital. Testing may include:- Blood tests
- Spinal tap
- MRI
- Evoked potential tests
Conditions We Diagnose
- Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM)
- Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM)
- Anti-myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody disease (MOG)
- Autoimmune encephalitis
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Myasthenia gravis
- Neuromyelitis optica (NMO)
- Optic neuritis (ON)
- Other rare neurological autoimmune diseases
Treatments We Offer
- Immunosuppression with medication
- Botox for spasticity
- Occupational therapy
- Physical medicine and rehabilitation