Neurology

Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis

Image of doctor with child

At Mount Sinai, we have expertise in treating children with multiple sclerosis (MS) and related disorders. Around 3 to 10 percent of patients with MS start having symptoms when they are younger than 18 years old. Almost all children have the relapsing-remitting form of MS, meaning that there are periods of symptoms alternating with periods of recovery. Over time, if untreated, MS can lead to disability. Our goal is to treat pediatric patients with MS with the appropriate therapies so that disability does not develop. Children with MS differ from grown-ups with MS in a few important ways:

  • Disease course: Often, children with MS have more symptoms in the first few years than adults do. They may also have more frequent relapses. This does not mean that their MS is more severe. It is important to have a doctor who knows what to expect—and knows how to treat it.
  • Cognition: Children’s brains are still developing. For this reason, any disruption in the brain can affect the ability to think. Studies show that 30 to 50 percent of children with MS show some level of cognitive dysfunction. Language, attention, spatial memory, and abstract reasoning are often affected. We tailor our approaches to promote children’s intellectual development. Our team also includes neuropsychologists who can perform specialized testing to help a child’s school to develop a plan that best supports their learning. We also consider issues such as self-image and relationships with peers.

In addition, we use several specific approaches in our work with children:

  • Pediatric treatment approach: The medications that we choose to use to treat MS in children are not always the same as those used to treat adults. At Mount Sinai, we take into account the side effects of MS treatments on a child and the child’s developmental stage when creating a treatment plan.
  • Team approach: At Mount Sinai, we work with schools, social workers, and counselors to make sure that our young MS patients have the medical and emotional support they need to survive and thrive.
  • Technology: We use cellphone alarms and other techniques to remind children to take their medication.
Request an appointment