Services & Specialties
Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Diseases

The Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Center provides expert care for children, adolescents and young adults with all types of neuroinflammatory diseases, including multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus, and optic neuritis.

Fall stock at summit park, kids playing and having fun at the playground, Nora Erkins pictured

When Your Child Has Multiple Sclerosis or a Rare Neuroimmune Disorder, We’re Here With Answers

Neuroimmunology focuses on conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks the brain, spinal cord or nerves. A diagnosis like multiple sclerosis (MS) or autoimmune encephalitis can feel overwhelming. You may have questions about symptoms, treatment and what the future holds. Our team listens, explains clearly and builds a plan you can trust.

At the Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Center, we care for about 100 new patients each year with conditions such as multiple sclerosis, myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein disease, optic neuritis, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, autoimmune encephalitis and neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE).

Many of our patients are teens, and some have weakness or trouble walking. We combine advanced testing, research-driven treatments and strong family support to help your child live as fully as possible.

Why Choose Us for Neuroimmunology Care?

  • Team-based care from experts across specialties so your child sees the right specialists in a coordinated way.
  • Access to innovative treatments and clinical trials not available at many hospitals.
  • Advanced diagnostic and genetic testing to confirm rare and complex conditions.
  • Dedicated nurse coordinator support to guide your family, answer questions and help with insurance approvals.

Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmune Disorders: Our Approach

Our center is part of the Neurology program at Cincinnati Children’s, which is ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. This reflects the strength of the broader team supporting your child’s care.

Specialists Working Together for Your Child

Neuroimmune diseases often affect many parts of the body. That is why we use a true team-based approach. Your child’s care team may include specialists in neurology, rheumatology, neuro-ophthalmology, neuro-radiology, genetics, psychiatry, psychology, neuropsychology, urology, neurosurgery and rehabilitation medicine.

These experts work together to create one clear plan. During your visit, your child may see multiple specialists in one coordinated appointment. This reduces confusion and helps avoid unnecessary visits.

Innovative Treatments, Rehabilitation and School Support

Not every hospital is comfortable treating rare neuroimmune disorders. Our center provides access to innovative treatments and clinical trials for pediatric MS and related conditions.

We are one of the few designated Pediatric Centers of Excellence in Rare Neuroimmune Diseases (CERND) recognized by the Siegel Rare Neuroimmune Association. We are also an affiliated site of the U.S. Network of Pediatric MS Centers. This allows us to deliver care based on the latest evidence, including infusion therapies and other advanced options.

We work with our nationally recognized pediatric rehabilitation program to support strength, mobility and independence. For children with weakness, balance concerns or learning changes, we coordinate rehabilitation and school services so they can stay active, engaged and supported at school.

Advanced Testing for Clear Answers

Accurate diagnosis is critical. We offer advanced diagnostic and genetic testing to help confirm complex or rare conditions.

Clear answers allow us to start the right treatment sooner. They also help families understand what to expect next.

Ongoing Guidance and Second Opinions

About 25% of our patients come to us for a second opinion. Our specialists review records, confirm diagnoses and explain all treatment options in plain language.

Each family works with a dedicated nurse coordinator. Your coordinator shares educational materials before your first visit, helps secure insurance approval for testing or infusion therapy, and makes sure follow-up appointments are scheduled on time. You always have a clear point of contact.

Families from across the Midwest trust our center for expert neuroimmunology care. Whether your child is newly diagnosed or needs a second opinion, we’re here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.