Neurology® Podcast

Dr. Jason Crowell, an expert on ethical considerations in prodromal Parkinson disease, joins Dr. Colin Hoy, a specialist in diagnosis. They delve into the early signs of the condition, from smell changes to sleep disorders. The conversation covers the ethical dilemmas of diagnosing patients early, discussing the emotional and societal impacts. They also highlight disparities in access to testing for marginalized groups and emphasize the importance of shared decision-making and the evolving role of biomarkers in treatment.

Dr. Géraldine Androdias reveals how immune checkpoint inhibitors affect multiple sclerosis, highlighting a low risk of relapse in MS patients undergoing cancer treatments. Dr. Bob Fox dives into the significance of neurofilament light chain as a biomarker for disease progression, stressing the need for more research. Dr. Ellen Iacobaeus discusses the unique clinical traits of late-onset MS, advocating for personalized therapy approaches. Additionally, insights on family planning for MS patients underscore the importance of supportive discussions between patients and healthcare providers.

Dr. Halley Alexander, a prenatal care expert, joins Dr. Kimford J. Meador, a specialist in antiseizure medications, to discuss the impact of prenatal exposure on child development. They explore a study revealing no major differences in children's creativity but significant declines in executive function with higher medication exposure. The conversation delves into the risks of valproic acid, considerations for alternative medications, and the importance of folic acid supplementation for pregnant women with epilepsy. Their findings underscore the need for careful medication management.

Dr. Matthew Barrett, an expert in Parkinson disease, and Dr. Michael S. Okun, a prominent researcher in biomarkers, delve into the intricacies of biological staging in Parkinson disease. They discuss the ongoing need for caution when redefining classifications, emphasizing the importance of alpha-synuclein biomarkers. The duo highlights challenges in personalized staging and the complexities of diagnosis, while advocating for adaptive systems that can evolve alongside research. Their conversation underlines the necessity for inclusive dialogue and equitable access in advancing care.

Dr. Andy Southerland talks with Dr. Lidia Moura about the implications of large language models (LLMs) for neurologic care. Read the related article in Neurology. Disclosures can be found at Neurology.org.

Dr. Michael R. Wilson and Dr. John Pluvinage discuss their discovery of anti-CD320 antibodies in B12 deficiency patients with neurological symptoms, highlighting potential implications for diagnosis and treatment. They explore the role of antibodies impairing B12 transport into the brain, new insights into autoimmune neurology, and advancements in understanding autoimmune diseases.

Dr. Campbell Le Heron discusses the association of clinical and neurocognitive factors with apathy in Parkinson disease. They explore the complexities of apathy beyond dopamine deficiencies, the importance of early detection, and the impact of apathy on mortality. Counseling strategies and treatment options are also highlighted.

Dr. Andrew McKeon discusses autoimmune neurology, focusing on Paraneoplastic CAMKV autoimmune encephalitis. Topics include limitations of Paraneoplastic Panel screening, the role of CAM-KV antibody in encephalitis, and managing autoimmune disease during cancer treatment.

Dr. Ian Carroll discusses outcomes of epidural patching for patients with suspected CSF leaks, highlighting improvements in quality of life, challenges in diagnosing chronic headaches, and the significance of inquiring about headache improvement when lying down

As part of our "Physician as Patient" series, Dr. Andy Southerland talks with Dr. Eric Seachrist about his experience with multiple sclerosis. This podcast is sponsored by argenx. Visit www.vyvgarthcp.com for more information. Disclosures can be found at Neurology.org.