AAN 2025 Recap
The AAN conference serves as a valuable platform for collaboration and learning in neurology. In this recap, we highlight the contributions and involvement of our faculty, staff, and trainees throughout the 2025 San Diego conference.
Academic Hubs
Saturday, April 05
12:45 pm PDT
Topic: Models for Inpatient Care Coverage: Neurohospitalists and Beyond
Directors: Shaun O. Smart, MD; Jana Wold, MD
Summary: Participants should become familiar with models for inpatient care coverage that aim to enhance the efficiency and quality of care provided to neurology patients, as well as strategies and frameworks to ensure comprehensive coverage, including approaches to optimizing patient outcomes and resource utilization.
Monday, April 07
4:00 pm PDT
Topic: A House United: The Art of Being a Division Chief
Directors: Jennifer J. Majersik, MD, FAAN; Ihtsham Haq, MD, FAAN; Jessica Ailani, MD, FAAN; HaeWon Shin, MD
Summary: Division chiefs are a crucial element to advance the mission of neurology departments and influence their members’ careers. This program is designed to introduce individuals aspiring to or currently holding the position of division chief with the necessary leadership and management skills to effectively oversee a division within a department, focusing on areas like philanthropy, operational efficiency, team building, decision-making, and conflict management.
Tuesday, April 08
8:00 am PDT
Topic: Increasing Your Department & Division Funding
Directors: Jennifer J. Majersik, MD, FAAN; Ihtsham Haq, MD, FAAN; Jessica Ailani, MD, FAAN; HaeWon Shin, MD
Summary: Join department chairs in discussing how to increase and maintain funding to support the tripartite mission of academic neurology during these challenging times.
Wednesday, April 09
8:00 am PDT
Topic: Recruitment Strategies from Diverse Departments
Directors: Jayant N. Acharya, MD, DM, FAAN; Vivek Reddy, MD
Summary: In the current hiring environment, competitive salaries and sign-on packages are the obvious, but not the only, tools for recruiting academic neurologists. Join neurology leaders as they come together to discuss special recruitment challenges and outside-of-the-box methods for attracting neurologists.
Full-Day Course
Saturday, April 05
08:00 am–04:30 pm PDT
Topic: C10 - Neurology Update
Directors: Stacey Clardy, MD, PhD, FAAN; Tammy L. Smith, MD, PhD
Summary: This practical, interactive, and comprehensive overview is for everyone from trainees to seasoned clinicians and allied health professionals. Designed to be a fun "brain dump" of information from subspecialty experts, this course will offer a one-stop, efficient update on all included areas of practice. Participants should gain knowledge that can be applied directly to their practice settings.
01:55 pm–02:30 pm PDT
Topic: C10 - Neurology Update | Updates in Epilepsy
Speaker: Kathryn C. Krulisky, MBBS
Summary: Updates in Epilepsy in the Neurology Update full-day course.
03:55 pm–04:30 pm PDT
Topic: C10 - Neurology Update | Technology and Policy Impacts to Practice
Speaker: Vivek Reddy, MD
Summary: Technology and Policy Impacts to Practice full-day course.
Innovation Hubs
Tuesday, April 08
12:50 pm PDT
Topic: Ted Burns—A Legacy of Humanism and Innovation
Directors: Stacey Clardy, MD, PhD, FAAN; Andrew M. Southerland, MD, FAAN; Mehari Gebreyohanns, MD, FAAN; Jeffrey B. Ratliff, MD, FAAN; Howard P. Goodkin, MD, PhD, FAAN; Brett M. Kissela, MD, MS, FAAN
Summary: This is a discussion of the legacy of innovator and Podcast Pioneer Ted Burns, to honor present and past recipients of the Ted Burns Humanism in Neurology Award and explore the meaning and importance of humanism.
Other
Topic: New Division Chief Leadership Cohort Opportunity
Summary: The Division Chief Subcommittee is piloting a cohort program for new division chiefs in response to the Division Chief Needs Assessment Survey conducted in 2023, which found that division chiefs often move into this leadership position without leadership training. The pilot cohort, which will consist of a group of six new division chiefs, will come together at the Annual Meeting to meet in person and then complete a series of asynchronous courses and readings with monthly group meetings on Zoom. Reach out to Lauren Klaffke with questions.
Sunday, April 06
1:00 pm PDT
Topic: Women in Academics Networking Event at AAN Annual Meeting
Summary: Early career women in academic neurology are invited to discuss issues they're facing in their careers at the upcoming Annual Meeting in San Diego. For this event, early career includes P4 & P5 residents, fellows, and clinicians within 5 years of completing their residency. Reach out to Lauren Klaffke with questions.
4:00 pm PDT
Topic: Associate Professors Time to Thrive Networking Event at AAN Annual Meeting
Summary: Join us to connect with content experts specifically addressing topics relevant to associate professors. In order to help them thrive, succeed, and advance to full professor. There will also be an opportunity to network with peers. Reach out to Ashley Nielsen with questions.
Monday, April 07
1:00 pm PDT
Topic: Neurogenetics Through the Decade: A Journey of Progress and Insight
Speakers: Jose G. Merino, MD, MPhil, FAHA, FAAN; Stefan M. Pulst, MD, FAAN; Suman Jayadev, MD
Summary: The discussion will be moderated by Dr. José G. Merino, MD, MPhil, FAAN. The special speaker will be Suman Jayadev, MD with a short message from Stefan M. Pulst, MD, FAAN.
1:30 pm PDT
Topic: Neurology® Podcast and Neurology Minute®: 18 Years of Audio Excellence and Innovation
Directors: Andrew M. Southerland, MD, FAAN; Teshamae Monteith, MD, FAAN; Jeffrey B. Ratliff, MD, FAAN; Stacey Clardy, MD, PhD, FAAN
Summary: The editors provide a behind-the-scenes look at the production of weekly audio content for the Neurology® Podcast, which has been running for 18 years.
Tuesday, April 08
6:30 pm PDT
Topic: Autoimmune Encephalitis Dinner | Update on Clinical Trials in Autoimmune Encephalitis
Speaker: Stacey Clardy, MD, PhD, FAAN
Summary: This is a non-profit sponsored dinner to raise awareness / build community around autoimmune neurology.
Plenary Session
Monday, April 07
9:45 am PDT
Topic: Discussant: Autoimmune Encephalitis Is the Most Common Treatment-Responsive Cause of Rapidly Progressive Dementia: A Large Dutch Prospective Cohort Study
Speaker: Stacey Clardy, MD, PhD, FAAN
Summary: This session highlights issues most critical to practicing neurologists, including abstracts related to new therapeutic developments, clinical applications of basic and translational research, and innovative technical developments already affecting the practice of neurology.
Scientific Platform Sessions
Sunday, April 06
S8 - Disparities and Outcomes in Cerebrovascular Disease
3:30 pm PDT
Topic: Disparities and Outcomes in Cerebrovascular Disease
Moderators: Rachelle Dugue, MD, PhD; Veronica A. Moreno Gomez, MD
Summary: Scientific platform session surrounding cerebrovascular disease and interventional neurology.
Monday, April 07
S9 - Autonomic Disorders
11:15 am PDT
Topic: Autonomic Disorders
Moderators: Dongin Sinn, MD, Melissa M. Cortez, DO
Summary: Scientific platform session surrounding autonomic disorders.
S16 - Updates on Nerve and Muscle Disorders:
1:48 pm PDT
Topic: Motor Outcomes to Validate Evaluations in Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy (MOVE FSHD): Interim Baseline Data and Potential Predictors for FSHD
Authors: Leah Miller, MD (presenter); Kelsey R. Barrell, MD
Summary: The MOVE FSHD study follows 450 people over two years to identify markers that predict FSHD progression. Early results show that movement tests and patient reports closely reflect disease severity, helping guide care and future clinical trials.
2:00 pm PDT
Topic: Peripheral and Cranial Neuropathies Following CAR-T Cell Therapy for Multiple Myeloma: A Case Series
Authors: Michaela Walker, MPH, CCRP; Channa A. Hewamadduma, MBBS, PhD, FRCP, FRC; Russell Butterfield, MD, PhD, BS; John W. Day, MD, PhD; Stacy E. Dixon, MD; Katy Eichinger, PhD, PT, DPT, NCS; Bakri Elsheikh, MD, FAAN; SETH D. FRIEDMAN, PhD; Angela L. Genge, MD; Nicholas E. Johnson, MD, FAAN; Doris G. Leung, MD; Leann Lewis; Hanns Lochmuller, MD, FAAN; Erin K. O'Ferrall, MD; William Martens; Dennis W. Shaw, MD; Perry Shieh, MD, PhD, FAAN; S H. Subramony, MBBS, FAAN; Jaya R. Trivedi, MD, FAAN; Leo H. Wang, MD, PhD, FAAN; Alrabi Tawil, MD, FAAN; Jeffrey Statland, MD
Summary: This case series describes six patients with multiple myeloma who developed peripheral nervous system (PNS) complications after CAR-T therapy. Symptoms ranged from Guillain-Barré-like syndromes to isolated facial palsy, appearing weeks to months post-infusion. Responses to treatments like IVIG and steroids varied, with some improving and others deteriorating.
S22 - Innovations in Cerebrovascular Therapy:
5:06 pm PDT
Topic: Tirofiban and Endovascular Treatment Versus Endovascular Treatment in Patients with Intracranial Artery Atherosclerosis: A Meta-Analysis of 3,179 Patients.
Authors: Amiel A. Aragon Cortes; Luis E. Cueva Cañola, Sr.; Dilmareth E. Natera Rodriguez, MD; Damaris A. Velarde; Erick Calvario, MD; Yoshua Flores, Sr., MD; Ricardo A. Orozco; María d. Nevárez Rivera, MD; Diego Pichardo-Rojas, MD; Veronica A. Moreno Gomez, MD
Summary: This meta-analysis found that tirofiban, when used alongside endovascular treatment (EVT) for stroke due to large vessel atherosclerosis (LVO-A), can improve outcomes. Both prophylactic and rescue use reduced 90-day mortality, and rescue use also improved functional outcomes and lowered reocclusion rates.
Wednesday, April 09
S38 - NMOSD, MOGAD, Demyelinating, and Other:
1:00 pm PDT
Topic: Clinical Characteristics Associated With High Baseline Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP) and Neurofilament Light Chain (NfL) Levels in Patients With Anti-Aquaporin-4 Antibody-Positive (AQP4-Ab+) Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD) From the PREVENT and CHAMPION-NMOSD Trials
Authors: Dean M. Wingerchuk, MD, FAAN; Jeffrey L. Bennett, MD, PhD, FAAN; Jin Nakahara, MD, PhD; Jerome De Seze; Makoto Kinoshita, MD, PhD; Stacey Clardy, MD, PhD, FAAN; Kerstin Allen; Ruba D. Bou-Chahine; Becky J. Parks, MD; Jeannette Stankowski, PhD; Sean J. Pittock, MD, FAAN
Summary: This analysis of the PREVENT and CHAMPION-NMOSD trials found that patients with NMOSD had elevated GFAP and NfL levels—markers of astrocyte and neuronal injury—at baseline, which decreased with treatment. High biomarker levels were linked to older age and greater disability, but not to relapse risk or timing. Notably, no relapses occurred in ravulizumab-treated patients, even among those with high baseline GFAP or NfL.
Scientific Posters
Saturday, April 05
POSTER SESSION 1
11:45 am PDT
Topic: Altered Sympathetic Responses to Orthostatic Challenge in Acute Concussion
Authors: Greg Memmott; Ryan Pelo, PhD, PT; Peter Fino; Lee Dibble; Melissa M. Cortez, DO
Summary: This study found that people with recent concussions showed a reduced sympathetic nervous system response during head-up tilt testing, suggesting altered autonomic function. This may help explain symptoms like dizziness and activity intolerance after concussion, though further research is needed to explore the role of cerebral blood flow.
Topic: Biomarkers of Inflammation and Neuronal and Glial Injury and their Correlation with Disease Severity and Progression in Leucine-Rich Glioma Inactivated-1 (LGI1) Autoimmune Encephalitis
Authors: Tyler L. Borko, BA; Phillip Winters; Stefan Sillau; Sadie Eggmann; Sean Selva; Alanna Ritchie; Kelli Money, MD, PhD; Paul D. Crane, MD; Gregory Owens, PhD; Jeffrey L. Bennett, MD, PhD, FAAN; Amanda L. Piquet, MD, FAAN
Summary: In patients with LGI1 autoimmune encephalitis, elevated blood biomarkers of neuronal and glial injury (NfL and GFAP) and inflammation were observed at symptom onset but declined over time, mirroring clinical improvement. Over six years, patients showed significant recovery in function and cognition, with no relapses or seizures, suggesting these biomarkers may reflect disease severity and long-term outcomes.
Topic: General Health Status and Health-Related Quality of Life among Patients with Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)
Authors: Casey R. Tak, PhD; Ratthanon Prasitwarachot, PhD candidate; Kirti Sivakoti, MD, MBBS; Melissa M. Cortez, DO
Summary: People with POTS report significantly reduced quality of life, with an average health utility score of 0.56—well below the general U.S. adult average of 0.87. Pain, difficulty with daily activities, depression, anxiety, and poor work ability were major contributors to lower scores. These findings highlight the need for further research into the clinical factors affecting quality of life in POTS.
Topic: Patient-Reported Global Change Following Individualized Exercise Prescription for Autonomic Disorders
Authors: Melissa M. Cortez, DO; Kelsi Schiltz, PT; Lauren J. Ziaks, PT; Ryan Pelo, PhD, PT; Kathryn Johnson, PT
Summary: Patients prescribed individualized exercise using the Utah ADaPT protocol reported modest self-perceived improvements in their condition, with 82% noting at least slight improvement. However, 19% were unable to engage in the program. These early results suggest potential benefit, but further research is needed to link perceived change to quality of life and functional outcomes in autonomic disorders.
Topic: Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) Symptom Burden: Frequency, Severity, and Impact on Activities of Daily Living
Authors: Jonathan Trout, MD (presenter); Steven Vernino, MD, PhD, FAAN; Rachel R. Codden, MPH; Jenavieve Barson; Geoffrey Laforge, PhD; Alex Billings; Melissa M. Cortez, DO
Summary: This study found that individuals with POTS experience a high daily symptom burden, with lightheadedness and fatigue being the most common. Fatigue, weakness, and post-exertional symptom worsening had the greatest impact on daily functioning. Activities such as exercise, recreation, shopping, and stair climbing were most severely affected. These findings highlight the need for better tools to assess symptom burden and guide care in POTS.
Topic: The CurePSP Genetics Program - Initial Enrollment and Results
Authors: Anne Marie A. Wills, MD; Chinyere Obasi, BA; Vivian Zhao; Sonja W. Scholz, MD, FAAN; Huw R. Morris, MD, PhD; Nikolaus McFarland, MD, PhD, FAAN; Federico J. Rodriguez-Porcel, MD; Martha A. Nance, MD; Tatiana Foroud, PhD; Catherine Martinez, Clinical Research Coordinator; Laura Heathers, BA, CCRP; Jennifer Verbrugge; Anthony E. Lang, MD, FAAN; Mandy N. Miller, MS, CGC; Junaid H. Siddiqui, MD; Maysen Mesaros; Lawrence S. Honig, MD, PhD, FAAN; David Shprecher, DO, FAAN; Paolo M. Moretti, MD; Kristophe Diaz, PhD; Jennifer Brummet, PhD
Summary: This study is building genetic cohorts for PSP, CBS, and MSA to explore the role of genetics in these conditions. Early findings indicate that genetic factors may be more significant in atypical parkinsonism than previously thought.
Sunday, April 06
POSTER SESSION 2
8:00 am PDT
Topic: A Retrospective Study on Functional Outcome Measures in Patients with Stiff-Person Syndrome
Authors: Mallory Lowe, MD; Kelli Money, MD, PhD; Tyler L. Borko, BA; Paul D. Crane, MD; Kunbin Qu, PhD; Stefan Sillau; Eric Engebretson; Sham Dholakia, MD, PhD; James Chung, MD, PhD; Esther H. Nie, PhD; Kavita Nair, PhD, FAAN; Aaron M. Carlson, MD; Amanda L. Piquet, MD, FAAN
Summary: This study analyzed the progression of Stiff Person Syndrome Spectrum Disorder (SPSD) using the Timed 25-Foot Walk (T25FW) and the Modified Rankin Scale (mRS). Results showed that while SPSD is chronic and progressive, with gradual worsening in T25FW scores over time, the mRS did not show significant changes, indicating it may not be sensitive enough to track disease progression in patients with mild to moderate disability.
Topic: Healthcare Resource Utilization in Patients with Stiff-Person Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Mallory Lowe, MD; Eric J. Gutierrez; Arie Barlev, Doctor of Pharmacy; Paul D. Crane, MD; Eric Engebretson; Stefan Sillau; Kavita Nair, PhD, FAAN; Aaron M. Carlson, MD; Amanda L. Piquet, MD, FAAN
Summary: This study analyzed healthcare resource use and costs for 59 SPSD patients, revealing frequent tests and medical services. Understanding these patterns is key for improving patient care and resource allocation for this rare disease.
POSTER SESSION 3
11:45 am PDT
Topic: 84-Year-Old Male with Kelch-like Protein 11 (KLHL11) Antibody-Associated Rhombencephalitis and Merkel Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Priya Swaminathan, Medical student; Jasmine Pascoe, MD; Matthew L. Jacobson, MD; Kathryn C. Krulisky, MBBS; Brian L. Johnson, MD; Jonathan R. Galli, MD; Kyle Mahoney, MD; Yong Guo; Divyanshu Dubey, MD, FAAN; Paul D. Crane, MD
Summary: [This case presents an 84-year-old man with Merkel cell carcinoma who developed a rare brain inflammation (KLHL11 antibody-associated rhombencephalitis) after receiving immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy. Despite treatments, including steroids and plasma exchange, his symptoms partially improved, but he later died due to complications. This case suggests that KLHL11 antibody-related brain inflammation could be linked to Merkel cell carcinoma and immune therapy, though more research is needed.
Topic: Co-occurrence of Essential Tremor and Parkinson’s Disease in a Patient with Biallelic PRKN Mutations: A Case for Early Genetic Testing and Tailored Surgical Management
Author: Laura A. Pesantez Pacheco, MD*
Summary: A 44-year-old woman with progressive tremors and a family history of tremor was initially diagnosed with Essential Tremor (ET). Genetic testing later revealed biallelic PRKN mutations, linking her symptoms to Parkinson's disease (PD). This case emphasizes the value of genetic testing in ET for better treatment planning, suggesting early identification could lead to more effective treatments like deep brain stimulation (DBS).
*Note: University of Utah Neurology residents Conor Flavin, MD, and Abigail Bossart, MD, are presenting for Dr. Pesantez Pacheco.
Monday, April 07
POSTER SESSION 5
8:00 am PDT
Topic: Relapsing Myelopathy and Neuropathy in Adulthood: A Case of Biotinidase Deficiency
Authors: Drew Weber, MD (presenter); Kyle Mahoney, MD; Ashley Andrews, NP; Paul D. Crane, MD
Summary: Inborn errors of metabolism represent an important differential diagnosis to consider in cases of progressive neurological decline. Although biotinidase deficiency has been reported to cause both peripheral nerve injury and myelopathy, adult presentations are rare. We present a case of progressive peripheral nerve injury and cervical myelopathy due to untreated biotinidase deficiency.
POSTER SESSION 6
11:45 am PDT
Topic: A Significant Occurrence of Primary Neuropsychiatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Clinical Features and Management
Authors: Drew Weber, MD (presenter); Jonathan R. Galli, MD; Muhammad Ahmed N. Chauhan, MD
Summary: Neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) is a complication of SLE that affects the nervous system through inflammation or thrombosis (primary NPSLE) or due to immunosuppression or medication side effects (secondary NPSLE). Diagnostic findings include SLE diagnosis with symptoms including altered cognition, neuropsychiatric changes, or neuropathy, and supportive features such as a high SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) and presence of specific autoantibodies. Treatment involves immunosuppression with glucocorticoids, cyclophosphamide, or anti-B-cell therapy, with intravenous immunoglobulin or plasmapheresis in selected cases. This case highlights a noteworthy case of primary NPSLE's clinical features, management, and outcome.
Topic: Epigenetic Age is Minimally Correlated with Leukocyte Telomere Length in Pediatric Onset Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Jennifer H. Yang, MD; Jonathan Race; Paige Sumowski; Kayla Jacques, MD; Soha Fardad; Ashley Fair, MAS; Allison Schuette; Jue Lin, PhD; Defne Yilmaz, MSc; Gregory S. Aaen, MD; Aaron W. Abrams, MD; Leslie A. Benson, MD; Theron C. Casper, PhD; Tanuja Chitnis, MD, FAAN; Mark Gorman, MD; Timothy E. Lotze, MD, FAAN; Lauren B. Krupp, MD, FAAN; Soe S. Mar, MD, FAAN; Jayne Ness, MD; Mary R. Rensel, MD, FAAN; John W. Rose, MD, FAAN; Teri Schreiner, MD, MPH, FAAN; Jan-Mendelt Tillema, MD; Amy T. Waldman, MD; Yolanda Wheeler; Lisa F. Barcellos, PhD; Emmanuelle Waubant, MD, PhD, FAAN; Jennifer Graves, MD, PhD
Summary: A study examined the correlation between epigenetic clocks and telomere length in pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (POMS) and age-matched controls. It found minimal correlation between these two biomarkers, suggesting they measure different aging-related processes. This supports using multiple biomarkers to better understand aging in MS rather than relying on just one.
Topic: The Impact and Utility of Genetic Panel Testing in Autoimmune Neurology Practice: A Single Center Experience
Authors: Sydney Lee, MD (presenter); Chloe Stein; Ka-Ho Wong; Tracy E. Schaffer, RN; Emily Spoth; Melissa A. Wright, MD; Tammy L. Smith, MD, PhD; Stacey Clardy, MD, PhD, FAAN
Summary: A study evaluated the impact of genetic testing in adult patients seen in an autoimmune neurology clinic. Of 994 patients, 179 had genetic panels ordered. Results showed that two-thirds of these patients had variants of uncertain significance (VUS), while one-third had positive results, including some with a gene related to immune system function (NOD2). The study highlights that while genetic testing can be useful, there are challenges in applying these results to patient care, and more research is needed to understand their impact on diagnosis and treatment.
POSTER SESSION 7
5:00 pm PDT
Topic: The Urgent Need for Evidence Over Anecdote: Equipoise in the ExTINGUISH Clinical Trial in Anti-NMDAR Encephalitis
Authors: Yoji Hoshina, MD (presenter); Tammy L. Smith, MD, PhD; Ka-Ho Wong; Lisa K. Peterson, PhD; Anastasia Zekeridou, MD, PhD, FAAN; Albert Aboseif, DO; Christopher Coffey, PhD, FAAN; Melissa A. Wright, MD; Brenda L. Banwell, MD, FAAN; Annalisa Dialino-Felix; Susan K. Flavin; Lisa Dill; Hyun J. Cho, MD; Josep O. Dalmau, MD, PhD, FAAN; Maarten J. Titulaer, MD, PhD; Gregory S. Day, MD, MSc, FAAN; Stacey Clardy, MD, PhD, FAAN
Summary: A review of studies from January 2019 to April 2024 examined treatment strategies and outcomes for anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis (NMDARE). The use of first- and second-line immunotherapies increased, and more patients received initial treatment within 30 days. Despite these improvements, patient outcomes showed only slight improvements, with no significant change in mortality. The variation in outcomes across studies highlights the ongoing uncertainty in optimal treatment strategies. Future clinical trials, such as the ExTINGUISH Trial, are expected to provide clearer guidance.
Tuesday, April 08
POSTER SESSION 8
8:00 am PDT
Topic: Diagnostic Utility of Genetic Testing in Patients with Carotid Artery Dissection
Authors: Jordan Langford, MD; Jennifer J. Majersik, MD, FAAN; Karol Budohoski, MD, PhD; Aaron Shoskes, DO
Summary: A study at the University of Utah examined genetic testing in patients with carotid artery dissections (CaAD). Among 78 patients, only one had a potentially pathogenic variant, while 24% had variants of uncertain significance. These genetic findings were linked to higher rates of stroke and multiple dissections, but the clinical significance of the variants remains unclear.
Topic: Paradoxical Embolism Secondary to Asymptomatic Venous Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Authors: Shumaila Anwer, MD; Alex O'Connor, MD; Philip Tatman, MD, PhD; Merry Joseph; Eric Christiansen, MD; Stephanie Lyden, MD; Vivek Reddy, MD; Veronica A. Moreno Gomez, MD
Summary: A 26-year-old male with a paradoxical embolic stroke was found to have a PFO and UEDVT due to venous thoracic outlet syndrome (vTOS). Despite no typical symptoms, imaging revealed the cause of the stroke. The patient was treated with PFO closure and anticoagulation. This case highlights the rare link between vTOS and paradoxical stroke.
Topic: Transverse Myelitis in Context: Investigating the Role of Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) in Clinical Outcomes at a Population Level
Authors: Ka-Ho Wong; Justin Abbatemarco, MD; Alen Delic; John W. Rose, MD, FAAN; Tammy L. Smith, MD, PhD; Stacey Clardy, MD, PhD, FAAN
Summary: This study explored how social factors like income, rural living, and access to healthcare affect outcomes in patients with transverse myelitis. It found that these factors, along with age, disease severity, and tobacco use, are linked to worse outcomes. Further research is needed to understand the full impact of social determinants on TM.
POSTER SESSION 9
11:45 am PDT
Topic: 10-Year Trend Cost Analysis of Medicare Payment in Autoimmune Encephalitis Inpatient Hospital Admission
Authors: Ka-Ho Wong (presenter); Esther Zeng; L D. DeWitt, MD; Vivek Reddy, MD; Trieste Francis; Chloe Stein; Charles Henderson; Shaun Thompson; Tammy L. Smith, MD, PhD; Adam De Havenon, MD, FAAN; Stacey Clardy, MD, PhD, FAAN
Summary: This study analyzed Medicare payments for autoimmune encephalitis (AE) from 2013 to 2022. While the cost per admission increased, adjusted for inflation, the reimbursement decreased by 17%. The gap between hospital charges and Medicare payments also grew, highlighting the need for further research to refine reimbursement policies for rare diseases.
Topic: Acute and Chronic Effects of Deep Brain Stimulation on Gait Kinematics in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Jamal Al Ali, MD; Johnathan L. McKay, PhD; Joe Nocera, PhD; Faical Isbaine; Julie T. Tran, BS; Paola Testini, MD; Shirley Triche; Christine D. Esper, MD, FANA, FAAN; Pratibha Aia, MD; Laura M. Scorr, MD; Lenora A. Higginbotham, MD; Richa Tripathi, MD; Svjetlana Miocinovic, MD, PhD; Cathrin M. Buetefisch, MD, PhD
Summary: This study found that deep brain stimulation (DBS) improves gait velocity in Parkinson's disease patients, with the effect lasting up to 12 months. Bilateral STN stimulation provided greater improvement than unilateral stimulation. While most patients showed immediate improvement, some experienced delayed worsening, suggesting DBS influences neural activity and network reorganization.
Topic: Demographic and Clinical Characteristics of an MS and NMO Registry Cohort in Ghana
Authors: Fiifi Duodu, MD; Nana Boakye Agyeman Badu-Prempeh; Prince K. Pekyi-Boateng, MBBS; Ruth Agyekum; Albert K. Akpalu, MD; Deanna Saylor, MD, MHS
Summary: A study in Ghana reviewed 51 patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMO/NMOSD). MS patients, mostly female with an average age of 34, faced a 4.8-year diagnostic delay, with optic neuritis being the most common symptom. Only 35% received disease-modifying therapies, primarily ocrelizumab. NMO/NMOSD patients, with an average age of 31, had a 1.4-year delay in diagnosis and were mostly treated with steroids. The study highlights diagnostic delays and limited treatment access, urging earlier diagnosis and improved care availability.
Topic: Shooting in the Dark? A Single-Center Experience of Neural Autoantibody Panel Testing
Authors: Jasmine Pascoe, MD (presenter); Lisa K. Peterson, PhD; Ka-Ho Wong; Stacey Clardy, MD, PhD, FAAN; Tammy L. Smith, MD, PhD
Summary: This study found that over 85% of neural autoantibody panels for autoimmune neurologic conditions returned negative results. The positive rate was higher in serum than CSF. It suggests consulting with an autoimmune neurologist before ordering tests to improve efficiency.
POSTER SESSION 10
5:00 pm PDT
Topic: The Impact of Distance in Treating Glioblastoma: A Retrospective Single Center Study
Authors: Samantha Kropp, MD (presenter); Sam Tenhoeve; Joe S. Mendez, MD; Rachna Malani, MD; Yian A. Chen, PhD; Yuxin Zhao, MS
Summary: A study found that glioblastoma patients living farther from a Comprehensive Cancer Center had poorer survival and lower clinical trial enrollment rates. Patients 25-40 miles away had worse outcomes, emphasizing the need for better access to treatment and trials in rural areas.
Wednesday, April 09
POSTER SESSION 11
8:00 am PDT
Topic: Sex-based Differences in the Clinical Presentation and Outcomes of Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome: A Nationwide Analysis
Authors: Prince K. Pekyi-Boateng, MBBS; Maya Gabel, MD; Conor T. Flavin, MD; Nana Boakye Agyeman Badu-Prempeh; Kamleshun Ramphul; Fiifi Duodu, MD; Clio A. Rubinos, MD; Jana Wold, MD
Summary: A study of 20,215 PRES patients found women were older, with different comorbidities. They had lower odds of kidney injury and hypertensive crises but higher odds of seizures compared to men. No significant differences were found in mortality or length of stay.
POSTER SESSION 12
11:45 am PDT
Topic: Designing and Implementing a Neurology Trainee Mentorship Curriculum
Authors: Brittany Russo, MD; Logan McPherson; Serena Wong, MD; Yarden Bornovski, MD; Ahya S. Ali, MD; Andrew Bauerschmidt, MD; Tracey A. Milligan, MD, FAAN; Sarah C. Parauda, MD
Summary: A new mentorship program for neurology trainees was implemented, involving pod-based groupings with attendings and trainees from different years. After one year, trainees reported increased satisfaction with mentors, more frequent meetings, and better peer mentorship opportunities. This curriculum could be a model for other residency programs.