RUSH Multiple Sclerosis Center

multiple-sclerosis

The Rush Multiple Sclerosis Center features a team of world-class clinicians and researchers, dedicated to offering the most advanced, comprehensive and individualized treatment protocols to patients affected by multiple sclerosis (MS), neuromyelitis optica (NMO), spectrum disorders (NMOSD) and other autoimmune disorders affecting the central nervous system.

While these conditions can be difficult to define conclusively, we pride ourselves on giving patients accurate, timely diagnoses and recommendations, as well as second opinions to referring healthcare providers. In turn, our accomplished team
of neurologists and nurse practitioners provide treatments tailored to each patient’s condition. We also partner with a trusted group of neurosurgeons, neuropsychologists, rehabilitation specialists and urologists to provide comprehensive care for patients.

We continually pioneer new and experimental treatments for MS, NMO, and other autoimmune central nervous system disorders before they are widely available. We offer advanced symptom relief treatments, such as botulinum toxin injections and intrathecal baclofen pumps for spasticity, deep brain stimulators for tremors, and sacral stimulators for urologic dysfunction.

Rush has participated in many multi-centered trials of life-changing drugs, such as Tysabri, Mayzent, Mavenclad and Kesimpta, which we utilize in our treatment of patients today. Currently, Rush is engaged in nine clinical trials for MS patients.

Why refer your patients here?

The neurology and neurosurgery programs at Rush are ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.

As leaders in the research and treatment of MS, Rush physicians developed Ampyra (dalfampridine), the first and only FDA-approved medication indicated to restore neurologic function of ambulation.

The Rush MS Center is a national leader in the evaluation and treatment of Tysabri- related progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML).

Our state-of-the-art infusion center, which opened in 2018, offers a full range of therapies, including Ocrevus, Solaris and Uplizna, the first FDA-approved treatment for NMO.

In the last fiscal year, our Center completed over 6,000 outpatient visits, which included over 3,300 infusions.

The Brain Wellness Program at Rush can help MS patients who are on drug therapy improve their brain function and quality of life with evidence-based lifestyle interventions in areas such as nutrition, exercise, stress management, sleep and mental engagement.

The Rush MS Center has been recognized as a Center for Comprehensive Care through the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s Partners in MS Care program.

Disorders We Treat

  • Primary-progressive Multiple Sclerosis (PPMS)
  • Progressive-relapsing Multiple Sclerosis (PRMS)
  • Relapsing-remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS)
  • Secondary-progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS)
  • Neuromyelitis optica (NMO)
  • Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD)
  • Autoimmune encephalitis
  • CNS Vasculitis

Tests and Treatments

  • All approved treatments for MS and NMOSD
  • Experimental and investigational treatments for MS and NMOSD
  • Baclofen intrathecal pump evaluation, placement and maintenance
  • Botulinum toxin injections
  • Cerebrospinal fluid assays
  • High potency immuno-suppressing and immuno-depleting treatments

Consult With a Clinician

Meet Our Team

Cynthia Dendrinos, NP, RN

Cynthia Dendrinos, NP, RN

Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner View Profile
Thomas Shoemaker, MD

Thomas Shoemaker, MD

Neurology Request an Appointment
Fabian Sierra-Morales, MD

Fabian Sierra-Morales, MD

Neurology Request an Appointment

Locations

Rush University Medical Center

Multiple Sclerosis Center
Professional Building
1725 W. Harrison St., Suite 309
Chicago, IL 60612