Experts at the Johns Hopkins Multiple Sclerosis Center provide targeted diagnosis and treatment for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). We know every person’s experience with MS is unique, so we design treatment plans that match each patient’s needs, lifestyle and health concerns, aiming to offer the right treatment at the right time. One of the largest clinical and research MS centers in the world, our center combines cutting-edge technology and research with a patient-first approach to care, with the ultimate goal of curing this disease.
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Our Approach to MS Treatment
We believe in a team approach. In addition to providing a comprehensive neurological evaluation and interpretation of MRI studies, we involve nursing, physical therapy and social work assessments as needed. This coordinated, comprehensive, multi-specialty approach helps us provide an accurate diagnosis, quality patient care and an effective treatment plan to help you manage MS long term.
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Years of studying retinal scans, brain MRIs and clinical characteristics from people with MS have allowed us to develop a system of personalized assessment and monitoring of MS that helps us anticipate and prepare for changes in your condition. Our evaluation and testing methods include:
- Innovative diagnostic tests that help us precisely identify your type of MS
- Imaging tests
- Lifestyle assessments
- Reviews of your medical history
- Ongoing genetic and blood tests
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A simple imaging test of your retina – the light-sensitive tissue that lines the back of the eye – allows us to identify the likelihood of rapid disease progression. The test, called optical coherence tomography (OCT) may also help determine your best course of treatment.
Ongoing genetic and blood tests may also help predict who is at risk for future disability. By partnering with our team, the knowledge gained from your case helps provide even better treatment for future patients.
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As leaders in both patient care and biomedical discovery, we provide the highest level of research-based, personalized care. Our team will create a personalized MS treatment plan that may include:
- Managing MS flare-ups and accelerating recovery with the help of steroids and other medications.
- Reducing the frequency and severity of MS flare-ups and treating worsening MS with beta interferon, glatiramer acetate and other FDA-approved drugs and therapies.
- Managing the variety of physical MS symptoms and mental health implications with medications, physical and occupational therapy, rehabilitation psychology, and working closely with specialists in other fields.
Multiple Sclerosis Rehabilitation
The MS rehabilitation program complements neurological care by helping patients preserve and improve physical and mental abilities, as well as adapt to change in functioning. The rehabilitation team physicians, psychologists, physical therapists, occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists, who work together to provide well-rounded care.
Learn more about the program
Appointments and Referrals
Your fist visit will be at the Levi Watkins, Jr, MD, Outpatient Center. Our team may refer you to other Johns Hopkins specialists for consultation or testing.
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To schedule an appointment at the Johns Hopkins Multiple Sclerosis Center, we will need the following:
- Recent medical records
- Reports of any MRI testing and other radiology testing
- A list of current medications
- Physician referral
- Lab reports
- Any other relevant records
Please submit the above information to our Referral Coordinator, who will assist with scheduling:
Referral Coordinator
600 N. Wolfe Street
Pathology 627
Baltimore, MD 21287
Phone: 410-614-1522
Fax: 410-367-3212 -
We recommend that you contact your insurance company to verify your benefits. We suggest confirming coverage for radiology, lab work and other services you may need, such as psychiatry and physical therapy.
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- Original (or copies) of any MRIs of both the brain and spinal cord
- Any recent test results that have not already been sent to us — some examples may include visual evoked potentials (VEP) or lumbar puncture (spinal tap) results
- A list of medications you use, including doses, start date, ordering physician and reason for taking the medication
- Completed new patient packet that we will send to you, including:
- New patient questionnaire
- Symptoms check list 90 (SCL-90)
- Sickness impact profile questionnaire (SIP)
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On certain days, we have a representative from the National MS Society DC-Maryland Chapter in our clinic to answer questions about the programs and services provided by the society. If you wish to meet with the representative, please notify our staff during your appointment. If you are unable to meet with the representative during your appointment or would like additional services provided by the MS Society, please contact them directly.
Multiple Sclerosis Research at Johns Hopkins
Hear from Dr. Peter Calabresi, director of the Johns Hopkins Multiple Sclerosis Center, what research is being done to develop new diagnostic and treatment options for MS.
