What Are Neuroimmunological and Neuroinflammatory Disorders?
These are conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks the nervous system (brain, spinal cord, or peripheral nerves), leading to inflammation, nerve damage, and neurological symptoms. Common examples include:
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO)
- ADEM (Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis)
- Autoimmune Encephalitis
What Causes These Disorders?
These disorders often result from autoimmune reactions, sometimes triggered by:
- Viral infections
- Genetic susceptibility
- Environmental factors
- Immune dysregulation
Symptoms of Neuroimmunological Disorders
- Sudden onset of weakness or paralysis
- Blurred or double vision
- Seizures
- Behavioral or personality changes
- Loss of coordination or balance
- Incontinence or urinary problems
How Are They Diagnosed?
- MRI Brain and Spine: Detects inflammation or lesions
- CSF Analysis (Spinal Tap)
- Autoantibody Panels
- Evoked Potential Tests
- Neurological Exam
Treatment Options
- High-dose corticosteroids
- IVIG (Intravenous Immunoglobulin)
- Plasmapheresis
- Immunosuppressants (in long-term cases)
- Rehabilitation therapy for recovery
FAQs
Q. Are these disorders reversible?
A. Some, like ADEM, can have full recovery; others like MS are chronic but manageable.
Q. Will my child need lifelong medication?
A. Depends on the diagnosis. Some require short-term treatment, others ongoing care.
Consult Dr. Neelu Desai – Pediatric Neurologist, Mumbai
022 67668181 / 022 45108181