Clinical neuroimmunology and multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease that mainly affects young adults. Being informed of the diagnosis profoundly disrupts the patient’s life, exposing them to sometimes disproportionate fears and many unanswered questions. However, nowadays, with prompt and effective care, the prognosis of this disease has improved significantly.

The Clinical Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Unit at Erasme Hospital works along several lines:

Medical expertise

The medical team ensures care based on the latest recommendations and closely follows scientific publications on inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system. Patients undergo physical and cognitive assessments using validated and reproducible tests. Patients have easy and rapid access to consultations, without delay, and the necessary additional examinations are organised at Erasme Hospital by the MS team. Treatment is chosen together with the patient after analysing the individual benefit–risk ratio.

Communication

Patients receive ongoing explanations about their disease and treatment. Dialogue is open and dynamic. Patients and their relatives receive support from a specialised nurse and learn to live with the diagnosis without restrictions. Personalised meetings and group meetings with other patients are offered.

Physiotherapy

Multidisciplinary care is available at the Centre for Outpatient Neurological Functional Rehabilitation. Annual assessments are carried out and regular follow-up is arranged to preserve patients’ abilities. The team also includes psychotherapists and occupational therapists.

Psychological support

The Centre for Outpatient Neurological Functional Rehabilitation also has a team of psychotherapists who are familiar with the challenges of multiple sclerosis and can provide occasional support. Patients can also take part in a monthly support group, where they can support one another and approach the disease differently.

Administration

Patients receive administrative support for every request submitted to their health insurance fund, employer, etc.

Research

The Neuroimmunology Unit participates in numerous clinical studies and contributes to fundamental research, with the aim of gaining a better understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms of multiple sclerosis and other inflammatory diseases, making diagnosis more precise and faster, and providing effective, well-tolerated treatments.