ALS and Neuromuscular Disoders
A collaboration between the Mischer Neuroscience Institute at Memorial Hermann and The University of Texas Medical School at Houston, the Neuromuscular Disorders Program records more than 2,000 patient visits annually.
Comprehensive diagnostic services in advanced neurodiagnostic facilities lead to the design of individualized treatment plans for a broad range of neuromuscular disorders, from amyotrphic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to muscular dystrophy to various types of neuropathies and myopathies.
Our patients are primarily adults age 18 and older; approximately two-thirds are over the age of 50.
Specialized in Neuromuscular Disorders
Our medical staff specializes in complex neuromuscular disorders that are difficult to diagnose and treat. Ongoing research includes genetic determinants influencing neuromuscular disease recurrence and origin. We work collaboratively with the UT Department of Rheumatology in designing research projects.
Our fellowship program in clinical neurophysiology is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. Each year we train two fellows who are directly involved in the care of patients.
Scope of Practice
- Neurodegenerative disorders
- Inflammatory nerve and muscle disorders
- Autoimmune neuromuscular junction disorders
- Traumatic nerve injuries
- Toxic metabolic disorders of the peripheral nerve and muscles
Neuromuscular Specialities
Specialties of Program include:
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
- Primary lateral sclerosis
- Plexopathies
- Acute, subacute and chronic peripheral polyneuropathies
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Focal entrapment neuropathies
- Myasthenia gravis
- Myositis
- Mitochondrial myopathies
- Metabolic myopathies
- Muscular dystrophy
- Myotonia
- Isaac's syndrome
Interventions
Interventions offered by the Neuromuscular Disorders Program include:
- Muscle, nerve and skin biopsy
- Advanced magnetic resonance imaging of muscle and nerve
- Specialized laboratory testing of hereditary and autoimmune disorders
- Advanced oral and intervenous immunosuppressive therapies
- Intravenous gamma globulin
- Plasmapheresis
- Reconstructive surgery for peripheral nerve and brachial plexus injury
- Robatic-assisted thymectomy