501. Transitioning from Pediatric to Adult Care with NMOSD

For this “ABCs of NMOSD” episode titled, “Transitioning from Pediatric to Adult Care with NMOSD,” Dr. Jonathan Galli joined Krissy Dilger of SRNA. Dr. Galli provided insights into the disorder and its presentation across age groups, emphasizing the importance of aggressive treatment [00:01:35]. He highlighted differences in treatment approaches and medication availability between pediatric and adult populations [00:05:54]. The discussion also explored the transition process, including timelines, support systems, and considerations for patients and families, aiming to ensure a smooth shift in care [00:10:45]. Dr. Galli received his medical degree from the University of Vermont College of Medicine in Burlington, VT, and completed his neurology residency at The University of Utah in Salt Lake City, UT, where he worked with Fellowship mentor, Dr. Clardy. As part of his fellowship training, he conducted research to look for biomarkers in individuals with NMOSD. The research investigated whether individuals have aquaporin¬-4 (AQP¬4) autoantibodies prior to their symptom onset of NMOSD, and also looked for other inflammatory biomarkers. He hopes the study will help us to understand how biomarkers occur over the course of the disorder, which will hopefully help identify predictors of disease development, and ultimately therapeutic targets.