Videos

2 experts in this video

Panelists discuss how progression independent of relapse activity (PIRA) in multiple sclerosis (MS) represents continuous neurological decline unrelated to inflammatory events, distinct from relapse-associated worsening (RAW). Recent ECTRIMS 2024 presentations emphasized standardized evaluation methods to better understand disease progression and improve patient management strategies.

2 experts in this video

Panelists discuss how modern multiple sclerosis (MS) management has evolved from symptomatic treatment to a proactive, personalized approach leveraging advanced biomarkers and sophisticated disease-modifying therapies. The focus has shifted toward early intervention, precise monitoring, and comprehensive disease control, significantly improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

John Michael Schreiber, MD, describes how he counsels and educates caregivers about the potential benefits and limitations of genetic testing, detailing his approach to educating them before testing, how he guides them in interpreting results and transitioning to clinical management afterward, and the role of genetic counseling, including when to refer to a genetic specialist; he also provides key takeaways on the role and value of genetic testing for pediatric epilepsy and discusses how providers should utilize next-generation sequencing (NGS) moving forward.

Michael Levy, MD, PhD, is featured in this series.

A panelist discusses how when treating NMOSD, neurologists should consider the patient's clinical characteristics, safety profiles, administration requirements, and cost-effectiveness when selecting between FDA-approved therapies such as eculizumab, inebilizumab, satralizumab, ravulizumab, and rituximab. Shared decision-making is crucial, involving close collaboration between the healthcare team and the patient to develop a personalized treatment plan that considers the patient's overall well-being.

John Michael Schreiber, MD, expands on the role of genetic testing in identifying and diagnosing epilepsy, discussing when it is clinically indicated and who should receive it, while also addressing key considerations for selecting tests for pediatric patients based on individual presentations and clinical factors, and outlining how to choose the best testing options while recognizing potential barriers and expectations for health care providers, caregivers, and patients before and after testing.