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Multiple Sclerosis — Pediatric Care Center


Our Pediatric MS Center is one of six in the nation designated as a center of excellence by the National MS Society.

Mission Statement

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

The National Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis Center at Stony Brook University Medical Center provides comprehensive care to children and adolescents with MS and related disorders. Our center was developed to advance the recognition, evaluation, and treatment of pediatric MS through the creation of a multidisciplinary program dedicated to expert clinical care and scientific research of children and adolescents with MS. We have a multidisciplinary team of professionals, including neurology, pediatric neurology, nursing, psychiatry, and neuropsychology, that provides diagnosis and treatment of MS, psychosocial, and educational services.

An estimated five percent of individuals with MS have disease onset before the age of 18. Yet many pediatricians remain unaware that MS is also a disease of the young. Lack of awareness regarding pediatric MS in the medical community leaves affected children undiagnosed and untreated. For children and families, the diagnosis of MS can be frightening, but there are multiple opportunities to get assistance and comprehensive care.

The Stony Brook Difference

Founded and led by Dr. Lauren Krupp, an internationally recognized expert in multiple sclerosis and its management, and recipient of the Leadership Award (2000) and Health Professional of the Year from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (2002), the National Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis Center has a multidisciplinary team that is known for its comprehensive treatment of children and adolescents with MS. Our program begins with a comprehensive multidisciplinary evaluation conducted over one or two days. This evaluation includes:

  • A neurological assessment by a pediatric neurologist and MS specialist;

  • A neuropsychological evaluation and psychological assessment to evaluate the impact of MS on cognition, academic performance, and emotional functioning;

  • Ophthalmology and radiology exams;

  • Individual psychological support for our patients and their family members;

  • An in-depth assessment by a pediatric neurology nurse practitioner who specializes in MS, including case worker management services, ongoing care and treatment for local patients, consultation with your physician, and consultation with your child's school system

We stress continuity of care by helping our patients make the transition into the Adult Multiple Sclerosis Center when the time comes.

Unlike less complex illnesses, MS can have far reaching effects on our patients and their families, not only physically, but cognitively and emotionally. Our services include a neurophysiologist who assesses any cognitive issues that may be present; a social worker to assist our patients and their families with any psychosocial challenges; nurses who are deeply involved in evaluation and treatment; pediatric neurologists; an MS specialist; child psychiatrist; and occupational therapists and physical therapists to help with any rehabilitation needs.

Teen Adventure Camp

Children with MS and their families can feel isolated. We work to alleviate feelings of isolation by providing a support network. In addition, we offer our patients a unique program called Teen Adventure Camp -- the only camp of its kind in the United States specifically for adolescents with multiple sclerosis. Teen Adventure Camp Held at Camp Canonicus Retreat Center in Exeter, Rhode Island, at Teen Adventure Camp, campers participate in outdoor activities, such as kayaking and navigating a high ropes course. They also meet other kids their own age who face the same challenges they do. Typically two sessions are held each summer, and it is free to all participants.

MS is a chronic, complex condition, and we provide workshops throughout the year for our patients, their families, and the community at large to help better educate them about the condition. In addition, our team of professionals is available to answer any and all questions that arise regarding your child's condition, situation, school needs, or mood. Do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have.

For more information about our program, visit our website or download our brochure.

Services

Our Services Include

  • Comprehensive 1- to 2-day multidisciplinary evaluation

  • Neuroimaging:

    • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning, 1.5 and 3 TESLA (T is the unit of magnetic strength);

    • Functional MRI, which measures change in blood flow as it relates to brain activity;

    • Magnetic transfer imaging, a newer, more accurate form of MRI;

    • Magnetic resonance spectroscopy, which picks up signals from brain cells;

    • Diffusion tensor imaging, which assesses how cells and information move through the brain and spinal cord; and

    • Positron emission tomography (PET) scanning, which uses a radioactive tracer to track energy in your brain and spinal cord.

  • Therapies:

    • Medication infusion;

    • Lumbar puncture (spinal tap) clinic;

    • Baclofen pump therapy for spasticity (muscle tightness);

    • Intramuscular injection therapy;

    • Bladder scan for bladder complications; and

    • Vaccination.

  • Support:

    • Teen Adventure Camp;

    • Physical and occupational therapy;

    • Social work services;

    • Pain management;

    • Community outreach; and

    • Patient education.


Physicians

Supporting Specialists

  • Robert Peyster, MD, Radiologist

  • Deborah Weisbrot, MD, Psychiatrist

  • Thomas Preston, PhD, Neuropsychologist

  • Maria Milazzo, RN, MS, PNP-C, Nurse Practitioner

We offer our patients tomorrow's treatments today through our many clinical trials. Our patients may elect to participate in ongoing, cutting-edge, clinical research trials that are being conducted at our institution. Participation in a clinical trial can provide patients with access to new research treatments before they are widely available. Click on the following website links to access more information on the current clinical trials offered at Stony Brook University Medical Center:

Office of Clinical Trials:


General Clinical Research Center (GCRC):