Your Trusted MS Specialist in Beverly Hills and Los Angeles

Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS)

What is Secondary Progressive MS?

Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS) is a form of MS characterized by a gradual worsening of symptoms independent of relapses. SPMS usually develops years after the initial diagnosis of RRMS and is more common in older patients.

Symptoms of Secondary Progressive MS

SPMS symptoms are similar to RRMS but worsen over time without distinct relapses. Common symptoms include:

• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations
• Double vision
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Bladder and bowel problems
• Balance and walking difficulties
• Muscle weakness and stiffness
• Fatigue and cognitive issues

Diagnosing Secondary Progressive MS

SPMS is diagnosed when a patient with RRMS experiences a gradual worsening of symptoms independent of relapses. The progression varies from person to person and is based on the patient's history.

Treating Secondary Progressive MS

Treatment for SPMS may include disease-modifying therapies to slow progression, symptom management, and rehabilitation to improve function and quality of life.

You're Not Alone

Living with SPMS can be challenging, but our experienced healthcare professionals are here to support you. Reach out to us to discuss personalized treatment plans and strategies for maintaining your quality of life.

Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (PPMS)

What is Primary Progressive MS?

Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (PPMS) is characterized by a steady worsening of neurological function without distinct relapses or remissions. PPMS is less common than RRMS and usually begins later in life.

Symptoms of Primary Progressive MS

PPMS symptoms are similar to RRMS but worsen steadily over time. Common symptoms include:

• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations
• Double vision
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Bladder and bowel problems
• Balance and walking difficulties
• Muscle weakness and stiffness
• Fatigue and cognitive issues

Diagnosing Primary Progressive MS

Diagnosing PPMS involves reviewing medical history, physical exams, MRI scans, and sometimes spinal fluid analysis. The key factor is identifying a progressive course of symptoms from the onset without clear relapses or remissions.

Treating Primary Progressive MS

Treatment for PPMS focuses on managing symptoms, slowing disease progression, and improving quality of life. This may include physical therapy, medications, and disease-modifying therapies approved for PPMS.

Personalized Care for PPMS

At our center, we understand the unique challenges of PPMS. Schedule a consultation with our team to explore the latest treatment options and develop a comprehensive care plan tailored to your needs.

Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS)

What is Clinically Isolated Syndrome?

Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS) is a single episode of neurological symptoms caused by inflammation or demyelination in the central nervous system. CIS can be the first sign of multiple sclerosis, but a diagnosis of MS requires evidence of a second episode or the presence of specific inflammatory markers.

Symptoms of Clinically Isolated Syndrome

CIS symptoms vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:

• Vision loss in one eye
• Eye pain
• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations
• Double vision
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Urinary urgency
• Balance and walking difficulties
• Muscle weakness or stiffness

Diagnosing Clinically Isolated Syndrome

CIS is diagnosed when a person experiences a single episode of neurological symptoms consistent with MS, but there is no evidence of a second episode or signs of MS in the spinal fluid.

Treating Clinically Isolated Syndrome

CIS is often treated with the same disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) used for RRMS. These treatments can effectively prevent or significantly delay the development of multiple sclerosis.

Early Intervention Matters

If you've experienced a single episode of neurological symptoms, don't wait to seek help. Contact our clinic to undergo a thorough evaluation and discuss proactive treatment options that may delay or prevent the development of MS.

Radiologically Isolated Syndrome (RIS)

What is Radiologically Isolated Syndrome?

Radiologically Isolated Syndrome (RIS) is characterized by the presence of MS-like lesions on brain MRI scans without any clinical symptoms of multiple sclerosis. RIS is a recently recognized condition, and some patients may develop MS within 5 years.

Symptoms of Radiologically Isolated Syndrome

RIS is unique because it does not cause any noticeable symptoms.

Diagnosing Radiologically Isolated Syndrome

RIS is diagnosed incidentally when a person undergoes a brain MRI for another reason, such as head trauma or headaches, and MS-like lesions are discovered.

Managing Radiologically Isolated Syndrome

Not all patients with RIS require treatment. Typically, a 'watch and wait' approach is recommended, with periodic brain MRIs to monitor for MS disease activity. If disease activity is detected, the same DMTs used for RRMS may be prescribed.

Proactive Management for RIS

If you've been diagnosed with RIS, partner with our specialists to monitor your condition closely and intervene early if necessary. We're here to provide expert guidance and support every step of the way.

Optic Neuritis (ON)

What is Optic Neuritis?

Optic Neuritis (ON) is an inflammatory condition that affects the optic nerve, causing demyelination. ON is often an autoimmune process and can occur after an infection, but the exact cause is not always clear. ON may happen once or be the first sign of multiple sclerosis or another autoimmune disease.

Symptoms of Optic Neuritis

ON usually affects one eye, but in rare cases, both eyes may be involved. Common symptoms include:

• Vision loss in one eye that progresses over days
• Blurred or dim vision, or reduced color perception
• Difficulty with contrast and glare
• Eye pain, especially when moving the eye
• Flashing or flickering lights

Diagnosing Optic Neuritis

ON is diagnosed based on medical history, the absence of other diseases that can cause vision loss, an ophthalmologic exam, brain MRI with contrast, and blood tests.

Treating Optic Neuritis

ON may resolve on its own, but treatment with IV or oral steroids can speed up visual recovery. Plasmapheresis may be used if steroids are ineffective.

Preserve Your Vision

Don't let optic neuritis impact your vision and quality of life. Our team is dedicated to providing prompt, effective treatment and ongoing care to help you maintain optimal eye health.

Transverse Myelitis (TM)

What is Transverse Myelitis?

Transverse Myelitis (TM) is a rare neurological condition caused by inflammation of the spinal cord. In most cases, TM is a one-time event with sudden onset followed by improvement or stabilization of symptoms over days to weeks.

Symptoms of Transverse Myelitis

TM symptoms can include:

• Numbness, tingling, burning sensations, or sensitivity to touch
• Balance and walking difficulties
• Bladder and bowel problems
• Muscle weakness and loss of dexterity
• Sexual dysfunction
• Muscle stiffness and spasticity

Diagnosing Transverse Myelitis

TM is diagnosed based on medical history, neurological exam, spinal cord MRI, and thorough testing to identify the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.

Treating Transverse Myelitis

Treatment for TM depends on the underlying cause. Options may include:

• Antibiotics or antivirals
• Steroids
• Plasmapheresis
• Immunomodulatory medications

Comprehensive Care for TM

If you're experiencing symptoms of transverse myelitis, our specialists are here to help. Contact us to receive an accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment plan to manage your condition and improve your outcomes.

Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO)

What is Neuromyelitis Optica?

Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO) is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks a protein called aquaporin 4 (AQP4) in the brain and spinal cord. Patients may experience NMO attacks affecting the optic nerves, spinal cord, or both.

Symptoms of Neuromyelitis Optica

Common symptoms of NMO include:

• Vision loss in one eye
• Blurred vision and eye pain
• Muscle weakness and imbalance
• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations
• Bladder and bowel problems
• Muscle stiffness and spasticity

Diagnosing Neuromyelitis Optica

NMO is diagnosed using a specific blood test that detects antibodies against AQP4. A cell-based assay is more accurate than an ELISA-based test. MRI scans of the optic nerves and spinal cord can also help with diagnosis.

Treating Neuromyelitis Optica

In the acute phase, NMO is treated with IV steroids and plasmapheresis. Long-term immunomodulatory treatment is necessary to prevent recurrent attacks, and several effective IV infusion therapies are available.

Expert Support for NMO

Living with NMO can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone. Our experienced healthcare team is committed to providing the latest treatments and ongoing support to help you navigate your journey with confidence.

MOG Antibody Disease (MOGAD)

What is MOG Antibody Disease?

MOG Antibody Disease (MOGAD) is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks a protein called myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) in the brain and spinal cord. Patients may experience recurrent attacks that mimic MS symptoms.

Symptoms of MOG Antibody Disease

Common symptoms of MOGAD include:

• Vision loss in one eye
• Eye pain
• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations
• Double vision
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Urinary urgency
• Balance and walking difficulties
• Muscle weakness or stiffness

Diagnosing MOG Antibody Disease

MOGAD is diagnosed using a specific blood test that detects antibodies against MOG, a protein in the brain and spinal cord.

Treating MOG Antibody Disease

In the acute phase, MOGAD is treated with IV steroids, and plasmapheresis may be used if steroids are ineffective. Long-term immunomodulatory treatment, usually administered via IV infusion, is necessary to prevent recurrent attacks.

Effective Management for MOGAD

If you've been diagnosed with MOGAD, our specialists are here to help you understand your condition and access the most effective treatments available. Reach out to us to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards managing your symptoms.

Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM)

What is Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis?

Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is a rare immune-mediated condition in which the immune system attacks multiple areas of the brain and spinal cord simultaneously, causing demyelination. ADEM is usually a one-time event, with recurrences being rare, and often follows an infection or vaccination.

Symptoms of Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis

Common symptoms of ADEM include:

• Confusion, drowsiness, or coma
• Vision loss in one eye
• Eye pain
• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations
• Double vision
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Urinary urgency
• Balance and walking difficulties
• Muscle weakness or stiffness

Diagnosing Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis

ADEM should be considered when there is a close relationship between an infection and the development of multiple neurological symptoms, often accompanied by headache, fever, and altered mental state. Brain MRI with contrast and a spinal tap are essential for diagnosis.

Treating Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis

In the acute phase, ADEM is treated with IV steroids, and plasmapheresis may be used if steroids are ineffective. Long-term immunomodulatory treatment is not usually required, as ADEM is typically a one-time event.

Prompt Treatment for ADEM

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with ADEM, time is of the essence. Contact our team of experts immediately to receive prompt treatment and maximize your chances of a full recovery.

Demyelinating Diseases

What are Demyelinating Diseases?

Demyelinating diseases are a group of conditions in which the myelin, the protective covering of nerves, is damaged, leading to impaired neurological function. In addition to the diseases described above, other autoimmune conditions (e.g., sarcoidosis, lupus, inflammatory bowel diseases), medications, electrolyte imbalances, or infections can cause demyelination.

Symptoms of Demyelinating Diseases

Symptoms depend on the location of the lesions and may include:

• Vision loss in one eye
• Eye pain
• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations
• Double vision
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Urinary urgency
• Balance and walking difficulties
• Muscle weakness or stiffness
• Confusion, drowsiness, or coma

Diagnosing Demyelinating Diseases

The diagnosis of a demyelinating disease is based on the time course of symptoms, appearance and location of brain MRI lesions, and sometimes the results of a spinal tap.

Treating Demyelinating Diseases

Treatment depends on the specific cause of demyelination and may include:

• Immunomodulatory medications
• Steroids
• Plasmapheresis

Navigating Demyelinating Diseases

Navigating the complexities of demyelinating diseases can be daunting, but our knowledgeable healthcare professionals are here to guide you. Schedule an appointment to receive an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

White Matter Lesions (Abnormal Brain MRI)

What are White Matter Lesions?

White matter lesions appear as bright spots on brain MRI scans and can be caused by various processes, including normal aging. Apart from inflammation, other causes of white matter lesions include migraines, high blood pressure, diabetes, blood vessel blockage, or genetic mutations.

Symptoms of White Matter Lesions

White matter lesions not caused by inflammation, lack of blood flow, or genetic mutations usually do not cause any symptoms.

Diagnosing White Matter Lesions

A brain MRI is necessary to detect white matter lesions. Differentiating between benign and treatable causes requires a thorough evaluation of the patient's history, physical exam, imaging, and blood tests.

Managing White Matter Lesions

Treatment for white matter lesions depends on the underlying cause. Benign causes usually do not require treatment, apart from managing any contributing factors.

Understanding White Matter Lesions

If you've been told you have white matter lesions on your brain MRI, don't panic. Our team of specialists can help you understand the underlying cause and develop an appropriate management plan. Contact us to schedule a consultation and put your mind at ease.