The Rutgers Health Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Demyelinating Diseases program evaluates and treats pediatric patients with central demyelinating diseases, diseases that damage the myelin sheath (the protective insulation and electrical activity conductor) of nerve cells. Such diseases include:

• Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM), an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the brain and spinal cord
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Neuromyelitis optica (NMO), also known as Devic disease (DD), a condition that causes inflammation and demyelination in both the optic nerves and spinal cord
• Optic neuritis, a condition that damages the myelin sheath around the optic nerve causing temporary or permanent vision problems
• Transverse myelitis, a condition involving inflammation of the spinal cord that affects strength, sensation, and bladder function

Treatment for MS and similar disorders is most beneficial when it begins soon after diagnosis. There is no cure for MS, but the best outcomes occur by identifying it early and managing flare-ups as soon as they appear.

Once a child presents with neurological symptoms that may indicate MS or similar disorders, the child’s function and cognition require observation; this can help maximize and preserve long-term development and maintain function. This observation helps our program develop comprehensive care plans to address potential issues with education, cognition, social functioning, mental health, daily activities, and quality of life. The program also places strong emphasis on preventing further relapses with treatment and therapies.

Our program collaborates with pediatric ophthalmology, pediatric rehabilitation, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care. We also evaluate other causes of disease and immune-mediated diseases affecting the brain, such as opsoclonus-myoclonus, autoimmune encephalopathies, and autoimmune epilepsies.

Physicians that serve our program are on the faculty of Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, a part of Rutgers University, one of the top research institutions in America. Our doctors are active in research and in teaching about all aspects of pediatric medicine, MS, and demyelinating diseases, and each brings leading-edge knowledge from the classroom to the exam room.

If you are seeking expert evaluation and treatment for your child who may be experiencing symptoms that could indicate MS or similar conditions, please make an appointment with the Rutgers Health Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis and Demyelinating Diseases program today.