Neurology® Podcast

Dr. Stefan Pulst, Chair of Neurology and Human Genetics at the University of Utah, delves into a decade of transformative changes in neurology genetics. He discusses the impact of the dedicated journal launched in 2015, which has helped connect genetic variants to rare diseases. The conversation highlights significant advances in genetic testing and how these developments are shaping personalized treatments. Lastly, he touches on the challenges of developing genetic therapies and the importance of collaboration and mentorship within the growing neurogenetics community.

Francesca Puledda, a neurologist from King's College London and author of the International Headache Society's guidelines, shares valuable insights on migraine management. She highlights the importance of tailoring treatment to individual patient needs and regional medication availability. The discussion covers acute treatments like triptans, unique considerations for pregnant women, and the complexities of preventive therapies. Puledda emphasizes a patient-centric approach that balances diverse options with satisfaction, ensuring comprehensive care for migraine sufferers.

Dr. Phillip Ferdinand, a stroke physician at Royal Stoke University Hospital and Keele University, shares insights on the alarming association between smoking and cryptogenic ischemic strokes in young adults. He discusses how smoking intensity correlates with stroke incidence, particularly in males aged 18 to 49. The conversation touches on rising trends in stroke incidents among younger populations and highlights the importance of evaluating social determinants of health. Ferdinand emphasizes the need for tailored prevention strategies and further research into smoking's impact on stroke outcomes.

Timothy Miller, an esteemed neurologist and ALS expert from Washington University, discusses groundbreaking advancements in ALS treatment using Tofersen. He highlights remarkable patient stories, including a patient who experienced a significant recovery after transitioning to the therapy. Miller emphasizes the importance of early intervention, revealing compelling clinical data that showcases promising slowdowns in disease progression. With a focus on shared mechanisms and ongoing research, he fuels optimism for future therapies that could transform ALS into a more treatable condition.

Dr. Amy Brodtmann, director at the Eastern Cognitive Disorders Clinic and professor, joins to discuss the nuances of diagnosing frontotemporal dementia (FTD). She emphasizes the holistic approach needed in assessments, particularly regarding behavioral changes that may mask underlying conditions. The conversation delves into the complexities of distinguishing FTD from Alzheimer's disease and the potential for misdiagnosis. Brodtmann highlights the critical role of follow-up care and emerging blood biomarkers to enhance diagnostic accuracy, shedding light on an often-overlooked area in dementia care.

Dr. Patricia Pozo-Rosich, a leading expert in headache medicine from Valdebron University Hospital, shares insights into groundbreaking advancements in migraine treatment. She emphasizes the importance of early intervention for better patient outcomes and discusses significant studies from 2024 that unveil new therapeutic targets. The conversation also highlights the transformative role of patient feedback and the integration of AI in personalized headache management, while expressing hope for forthcoming treatment innovations.

Dr. Wallace J. Brownlee, a renowned neurologist specializing in multiple sclerosis from Queen Square MS Centre, dives into the evolving landscape of MS diagnosis. He discusses the diminishing focus on dissemination in time (DIT) when high dissemination in space (DIS) criteria are met. The conversation also covers advanced diagnostic techniques like MRI and cerebrospinal fluid analysis. Brownlee outlines the significance of detecting lesions and emphasizes the role of optic neuritis in refining current guidelines for diagnosing relapsing remitting MS.

Dr. Seemant Chaturvedi, a stroke neurology expert from the University of Maryland, shares cutting-edge insights from the International Stroke Conference. He discusses important advancements in stroke treatments, including the role of endovascular therapy and findings from trials such as ESCAPE-MeVO and PRESTIAGE-AF. Chaturvedi also explores the complexities of anticoagulant use post-brain hemorrhage and innovative approaches like transcranial direct current stimulation for recovery. His expert insights emphasize the ongoing evolution of stroke care and research.

Dr. Anne Oaklander, an Associate Professor of Neurology at Harvard, discusses the connection between long COVID and small fiber neuropathy, shedding light on significant diagnostic challenges. She also shares effective management strategies. Dr. Carmel Armon from Loma Linda University tackles the efficacy of epidural steroid injections for spinal issues, presenting mixed results. The conversation highlights the importance of personalized treatment plans and improved research for managing neuropathic pain and conditions like diabetic neuropathy.

Dr. Lorraine Kalia, an associate professor of neurology at the University of Toronto and senior scientist at the Krembil Brain Institute, dives into the intriguing world of GLP-1 receptor agonists as potential treatments for neurodegenerative diseases. She shares insights on the mixed results from recent clinical trials, notably with exenatide, and discusses the promising preclinical benefits such as reduced inflammation. Kalia emphasizes the challenges of translating lab findings to human applications, while pointing to the potential for these therapies in conditions like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.