The Multiple Sclerosis and Neurology Institute of Austin is led by highly experienced medical providers specializing in multiple sclerosis, neuroimmunology, and neurology care for adult patients. We provide comprehensive and expert care to adult patients with multiple sclerosis and other neurological disorders, including neurological conditions caused by autoimmune problems, i.e., neuroimmunological disorders. We take a multi-disciplinary approach to the diagnosis and treatment of neuroimmunological conditions, helping you return to your daily activities. Please schedule a consultation to explore your neuroimmunology treatment options.
Neuroimmunology FAQs
What is neuroimmunology?
Neuroimmunology is a medical field that combines neuroscience, which is related to the nervous system, with immunology, which is related to the immune system. Neuroimmunology focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions occurring because of the improper interaction of the nervous system and immune system, such as multiple sclerosis. A malfunction of the nervous system or immune system can lead to a wide range of physiological, emotional, and mental problems, such as depression, loss of muscle control, speech problems, and more.
What are common neuroimmunological conditions?
The nervous and immune systems constantly interact to dictate numerous physiological functions and maintain optimal health. The nervous system is monitored by the immune system, which responds to abnormal changes in neural connectivity and cell identities. If the immune system starts attacking the healthy cells of the central nervous system or brain, you may suffer from neuroimmunological disorders. Multiple sclerosis is one of the most common neuroimmunological conditions — it occurs when the immune system attacks the fatty coating of the nerve fibers, preventing the optimal transmission of nerve signals.
The following are some of the most common neuroimmunological disorders:
- Multiple Sclerosis: Multiple sclerosis is the most common neuroimmunological disorder. It occurs when the immune system destroys the protective covering of the nerve fibers, thereby disrupting communications between the brain and body. This condition leads to vision loss, pain, fatigue, sexual problems, loss of muscle control, instability, and more.
- Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis: ADEM is a neurological and immune-mediated condition wherein the brain and spinal cord are severely inflamed, leading to a destruction of the nerve fibers and white matter. This can lead to headaches, confusion, weakness, seizures, nausea, vomiting, and numerous other symptoms.
- Neuromyelitis Optica: NMO, also known as Devic’s disease, is a severe autoimmune inflammatory disorder that affects the central nervous system. The immune system attacks the protective coating of the eye nerves and spinal cord, leading to blindness in one or both eyes, paralysis, weakness, and other symptoms.
- Transverse Myelitis: TM is an inflammatory condition that affects the spinal cord. In most TM cases, the immune system attacks the spinal cord, leading to motor and sensory problems on both sides of the spinal cord.
How are neuroimmunological
conditions diagnosed?
The Multiple Sclerosis and Neurology Institute of Austin is led by highly-skilled neurological experts who perform thorough evaluations to diagnose the root cause of your symptoms. The medical provider will perform physical examinations, discuss your symptoms, and administer neurophysiological tests, blood tests, and neuro-imaging tests. After a thorough evaluation, the medical provider will curate a personalized treatment plan to alleviate and manage the symptoms, thus improving your quality of life.
How are neuroimmunological
disorders treated?
The Multiple Sclerosis and Neurology Institute of Austin is led by neurological experts who curate personalized treatment plans to address your neuroimmunological disorders. Your treatment plan may include medications that suppress the immune system, physical therapy, occupational therapy, dietary changes, and other lifestyle changes to minimize your symptoms. Each treatment plan is personalized according to your specific symptoms and condition. Please schedule a consultation to explore the treatment options for your neuroimmunological disorders.
