PEDIATRIC MS CENTER

We are committed to improving the lives of children with multiple sclerosis and advancing research that will benefit all individuals with MS.

The National Pediatric MS Center at Stony Brook was founded in 2002 to advance recognition, evaluation and treatment of multiple sclerosis in children. Our Center was the first in the nation to address pediatric MS by assembling a multi-disciplinary team of experts. We have brought together specialists in the disease itself, as well as pediatric neurology, neuropsychology, neuro-ophthalmology, pediatric nursing, child psychiatry and neuroradiology. It is a designated "Center of Excellence" by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

The team's goal is to help children with MS by identifying the biological changes in children facing MS, advancing research that could make a dramatic difference in the lives and ultimately, to find a cure for all persons with MS. We are today also recognized as the founder of an international pediatric MS research program and have evaluated more than 400 children at our center.

About the Director

Lauren Krupp, MD

Dr. Krupp is an internationally known expert in MS and a recognized opinion leader in clinical management of the disease. She has an academic practice in adult MS at Stony Brook University for 23 years focusing almost exclusively on MS, but in 2002 her attention was also drawn to pediatric MS. Together with her gifted team, Dr. Krupp directs research at both the basic and clinical levels, working with international groups of scientists. In addition, the National MS Society named her as the first chair of the Steering Committee of a six-center national network that is setting the framework for pediatric MS care and research.

Services & Procedures

Young patients who come to our Center receive a comprehensive multi-disciplinary evaluation, conducted over one to two days. This includes:

• Extensive neurological assessment
• Neuropsychological and psychological evaluation
• Ophthalmologic assessment
• Radiologic review
• Nursing and Social Work case management
• Transition into the adult MS practice for continuity of care

Often children with MS and their families feel isolated, never having the opportunity to form relationships and share experiences with others affected by the disease. Our Center combats this sense of isolation by providing a support network extending well beyond medical care including a unique program, Teen Adventure Camp, a week long summer program for teens with MS. For information see our website www.pediatricmscenter.org or call 631-444-7802.

Patient Education

• About Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis
• What is Multiple Sclerosis?
• What is the difference between Clinically Isolated Syndrome and Multiple Sclerosis?
• Are there different types of MS?
• What causes MS?
• Is MS inherited?
• Are there treatments for MS?
• Are all the treatments given by injection?
• What is a relapse?
• How do I know if I am having a relapse?
• What is a pseudo-relapse?
• What can I do to prevent a relapse?

Resources