Multiple Sclerosis
At Marcus Neuroscience Institute, we focus on comprehensive treatment of
multiple sclerosis and related autoimmune diseases. That means addressing
every physical, emotional and psychological aspect of the condition to
make sure you can live a full and healthy life.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition that affects the central nervous
system. It interrupts signals the brain sends to the body, which can affect
a person’s movements, coordination and eyesight.
We approach every patient as a team, which includes care from neurologists
who are specially trained in MS and autoimmune disorders. Whether you
need medical treatment, infusions or physical therapy, Marcus Neuroscience
Institute at Boca Raton Regional Hospital can provide complete care under one roof.
Contact us with the number below.
561-955-4600
Request an Appointment
Which types of multiple sclerosis do you treat at Marcus Neuroscience Institute?
We treat all types of MS, including:
- Primary-progressive MS
- Relapsing-remitting MS
- Secondary-progressive MS
- Progressive-relapsing MS
Our team also treats related autoimmune disorders, such as:
- Ataxia
- Autoimmune encephalitis
- Autoimmune epilepsy
- Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD)
- Neurosarcoidosis
- Optic neuritis
How do Marcus Neuroscience Institute experts diagnose multiple sclerosis?
Every diagnosis starts with a thorough consultation and exam. During the
consultation, our neurology specialists will talk through your health
history and symptoms, as well as your family’s health history. We’ll
also conduct neurological tests for MS.
We may also use diagnostic tests to rule out any other conditions that
could be causing your symptoms. These tests can include:
- Blood work
- Examining fluid from the spine (lumbar puncture)
- Imaging tests, including 3T MRIs
How is multiple sclerosis treated at Marcus Neuroscience Institute?
We tailor every treatment plan to the individual patient, which means finding
a therapy that fits your type of MS, symptoms and treatment preferences.
Some treatments for MS focus on slowing down the progression of the disease,
while others help reduce symptoms and side effects. Treatments may include:
- Oral medications, including interferons, immunomodulators and immunosuppressants
- Infusion therapy, which may be given monthly, yearly or every one to two months
- Physical therapy and neurorehabilitation
In some cases, we may use a combination of these treatments.
At Marcus Neuroscience Institute, we also have access to several clinical
trials for MS, which provide groundbreaking treatment options that may
not be widely available.
Our approach
When you come to Marcus Neuroscience Institute for multiple sclerosis treatment,
you can expect:
- A patient-centric treatment approach that focuses on reducing relapses
and minimizing side effects of MS.
- A team of experts who are specially trained in MS and autoimmune disorders.
- The latest treatment options and diagnostic technology all available under one roof.
Where do I undergo infusion therapy?
Infusion therapy is available at our outpatient infusion center on the
Boca Raton Regional Hospital campus. The infusion therapy center is located
on the west side of the hospital off Meadows Road. This state-of-the-art
center features a comfortable and friendly environment with nurses who
are specially trained in giving infusion treatments.
What is a 3T MRI?
A 3T MRI, also called a 3 Tesla MRI, is a test that uses radio waves and
magnets to create images of the brain and spine. 3T MRIs have stronger
magnets than standard MRIs, which means they can provide more detailed
pictures of the tissue around the brain and spine. This technology helps
our team accurately diagnose MS and other neurological conditions.
Meet the team
Our team includes expert neurologists, nurses, medical assistants and physical
therapists who are all specially trained in MS.
Fawad Yousuf, M.D., Neurologist
Marcus Neuroscience Institute has access to many clinical trials that are
looking at new treatment options for MS.
Visit our Research and Clinical Trials page for more information.
What is multiple sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis is a condition that affects the central nervous system
(brain and spinal cord), which interrupts the flow of information within
the brain, and between the brain and body. MS may affect a person’s
mobility and their ability to coordinate muscles or their eyesight. The
disease is thought to be triggered in a genetically susceptible individual
by a combination of one or more environmental factors. In MS, the immune
system attacks tissue and cells within the central nervous system and
causes damage to nerve connections resulting in neurological symptoms.
MS may also impair functions such as bladder control, speech, concentration
or memory. This condition affects each person differently.
Who gets multiple sclerosis?
Anyone can develop MS but there are some patterns. Women are two to three
times more likely to develop it than men. Ages 20-50 are the most common
ages (although children have been identified). There are no specific genetic
factors that have been identified as of yet that MS is directly inherited
and it occurs in most ethnic groups.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing MS can be difficult as there is no single test available. It
can only be diagnosed by recording a person’s clinical history and
ruling out other disease processes step by step. Also by completing a
thorough neurological exam we can differentially diagnose the presence
of MS or other diseases. Scanning tests, particularly MRI can help. A
confirmed diagnosis may take years if the condition is slow moving.
Types of Multiple Sclerosis
There are four primary types of MS:
- Primary progressing: gradual onset of disability that does not recover
or reverse
- Relapsing/remitting: Most common symptoms develop suddenly and eases off
over days, weeks or months or resolves completely. Other attacks may leave
persisting problems.
- Secondary Progressive: The relapsing/remitting form of MS develops into
secondary progressive MS for many people. The attacks become fewer but
the person’s disabilities gradually become more pronounced with
no recovery.
- Progressive/relapsing: A rare form of MS that involves the progressive
of disability together with relapses from the onset.
Symptoms
MS is unpredictable and no two people will have the same set of symptoms.
Main symptoms include fatigue, impaired vision, problems with balance
and walking, numbness or pain and other sensory changes, bladder and bowel
symptoms, tremors, problems with memory and concentration, mood changes
and more.
Symptoms may affect three main categories of function:
- Motor Function: disturbance in movement and coordination.
- Sensory Function: Skin sensations of touch, pain and temperature, double
vision, focusing or coping with harsh light at night.
- Cognitive (thinking and behavior). Difficulty concentrating for prolonged
periods, poor memory, varying moods or behavior.
Evaluation
At MNI we have developed a comprehensive program specifically designed
to evaluate the possible diagnosis and treatment for MS. Our team comprises
experienced healthcare professionals from several areas of medicine including
neurology, rehabilitation, pain management, psychiatry and pharmacy.
Treatment Options
Many medications are available today to help people with MS. Some work
to slow the process of the disease and reduce the number of attacks while
others can be helpful in managing some of the symptoms of MS, such as
fatigue, stiffness, pain, bladder and bowel problems or mood difficulties. Other
treatments can also help shorten the course of symptoms during an attack.
Our team will talk with you after the testing and determine the appropriate
steps to take in managing your MS once a diagnosis is obtained.
Infusion Therapy
Our team of infusion therapy experts work seamlessly with referring physicians
to ensure all medication is delivered safely, affordably and efficiently.
The Institute’s highly trained registered nurse infusion staff administers
infusions for adults with a spectrum of neurological conditions.
To schedule a consultation, please call 561-955-4600.