Treatment at the Intersection of the Immune and Nervous Systems
Welcome to the Neuroimmunology Program at WMCHealth, where board-certified and specially trained neurologists offer innovative and comprehensive care in neuroimmunology, a rapidly developing field studying and treating diseases involving both the immune and nervous systems.
Under the leadership of Stephanie Gandelman, MD, the Neuroimmunology Program provides diagnostic and therapeutic care to individuals with multiple sclerosis and related conditions such as neuromyelitis optica, transverse myelitis, optic neuritis and other neuroimmune disorders.
Our team frequently provides care to patients referred from their primary care provider, as well as patients in an emergent setting.
Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Services at WMCHealth
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is the primary cause of non-traumatic disability in young adults and the most common neurologic disease managed by our neuroimmunology care team. The disease’s symptoms can vary widely from person to person and may change over time. However, many patients who are referred to our team may have experienced common early symptoms and warning signs such as vision problems, fatigue, pain, dizziness or vertigo, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, or cognitive or emotional changes.
As an academic neurology program, WMCHealth’s MS patients have access to the most rapid innovation in neuroimmunology. Our team stays on top of cutting-edge research in a field that has seen tremendous growth in treatment options over the last five to 10 years. Options and outcomes for patients with MS have dramatically improved in recent years.
Our Approach
Care for patients living with MS is a multidisciplinary experience. In addition to working with patients’ primary care providers, our neuroimmunology team frequently collaborates with specialists in general neurology, neuroradiology, rheumatology, ophthalmology, neuro-ophthalmology, urology, and physical medicine and rehabilitation.
Neuroimmunology Conditions We Treat
Our neuroimmunologists treat a full range of neurological and immunological conditions, including the following.
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS): a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system. MS causes inflammation, damage, and scarring of the protective myelin sheath surrounding nerve fibers, leading to various symptoms like fatigue, weakness, vision problems, and impaired coordination. Early diagnosis and management are crucial for enhancing quality of life.
- Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD): a rare autoimmune condition, also known as Devic’s disease, primarily affecting the optic nerves and spinal cord. It causes episodes of optic neuritis, transverse myelitis, and other neurological symptoms. Early detection and tailored treatment plans are essential for managing symptoms and preventing relapses.
- MOG-associated disease (MOGAD): is a rare autoimmune disorder affecting the central nervous system. It targets the myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG), leading to inflammation and damage to nerve fibers. Symptoms vary but may include optic neuritis, transverse myelitis, and brain inflammation. Prompt diagnosis and personalized treatment strategies are crucial for managing this condition.
- Optic neuritis: inflammation of the optic nerve, often causing sudden vision loss, pain with eye movement, and color desaturation. It can occur as a standalone condition or be associated with autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential for preserving vision and managing underlying conditions.
- Transverse myelitis: inflammation across the width of the spinal cord, causing sensory disturbances, weakness, and bowel/bladder dysfunction. It can result from autoimmune disorders, infections, or other causes. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing symptoms and preventing long-term complications.
- Neurosarcoidosis: a rare condition where abnormal collections of inflammatory cells, known as granulomas, form in the nervous system. It can affect the brain, spinal cord, or peripheral nerves, leading to a range of neurological symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital for managing the condition and preventing complications.
Technology We Use
Patients at WMCHealth have access to cutting edge neuroimaging technologies, including 3 Tesla MRI, which provides unparalleled diagnostic clarity for neuroimmunological conditions like MS. With enhanced imaging resolution, we ensure precise diagnoses and personalized treatment plans.
Our Providers
- Urology, Neuro Urology & Voiding Dysfunction
- Urology, Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery
Daniel Elefant, MD
Attending Physician, Neuro-Ophthalmology
Clinical Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology
New York Medical College
- Ophthalmology, Neuro-ophthalmology
- Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation