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Brenda Louise Banwell, MD
- Director, Department of Pediatrics
Expertise: Pediatric Neurology, Neurology
Whether you have struggled with getting the right diagnosis or are looking for the best treatment options, our team of experts in pediatric neuroimmune disorders is here to help. Our program cares for children with multiple sclerosis (MS), myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) and related neuroimmune disorders from early childhood through young adulthood.
Schedule an Appointment
For Patients
Call 410-955-9441 to schedule an appointment for a first-time diagnosis, treatment consultation or second opinion.
For Clinicians
Clinicians seeking to transfer a patient to Johns Hopkins or looking to consult with a pediatric neuroimmunology expert regarding an urgent case may call the Hopkins Access Line: 800-765-5447.
To refer a patient to our program, call 410-955-9441.
To refer a patient to our program, call 410-955-9441.
Conditions We Treat
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD)
- Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD)
- Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM)
- Myelitis
- Optic neuritis
- Encephalitis
- Neurological complications of autoimmune disease
- Neurological manifestations of rheumatological disease, such as systemic lupus erythematosus and neurosarcoidosis
- Other dysregulated neuroimmune disorders
Tests and Treatments We Offer
Diagnostic Tests
- Detailed clinical assessment
- Blood tests
- MRI
- Cerebrospinal fluid assessment
- EEG
Our Treatment Approach
We aim to maximize quality of life for our patients and their families by offering:
- Detailed family-centered discussion about the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment options.
- Medications to control the autoimmune process.
- Treatments to help manage symptoms of disease, such as fatigue.
- Collaboration with neuropsychology specialists to help support cognitive and school challenges.
- Referrals for physical, occupational and speech therapy.
Our Pediatric Neuroimmunology Experts
Our team of internationally recognized leaders in pediatric neuroimmunology offers compassionate care, research-backed therapies and ongoing support for children and families facing the challenges of living with neuroimmune conditions. We partner closely with specialists in neuro-ophthalmology, neuroradiology, neuropsychology, physical medicine and rehabilitation, and rheumatology to address our patients' needs.
Why Choose Johns Hopkins?
Recognized Expertise
We provide extensive, internationally recognized expertise in the diagnosis and management of pediatric MS, MOGAD and other neuroimmune disorders.
Research-Backed Therapies
We are among the leaders in pediatric neuroimmunology research, helping to improve understanding of these diseases and discover new treatment options.
Well-Rounded Care
We collaborate with a multispecialty group of pediatric experts to address patient and family needs in a comprehensive manner.
Our Research on Neuroimmune Disorders
Our team is actively engaged in researching aspects of neuroimmune disorders that are still poorly understood. We hope to better understand why a specific condition has affected your child and how we can better predict outcomes.
As part of this effort, we organized a registry and a biorepository of data and samples collected from participating patients. These collections are helping to pave the way for learning more about these challenging disorders and their treatments.
Find Open Clinical Trials at Johns Hopkins
Johns Hopkins researchers conduct a variety of clinical trials related to neuroimmune conditions and participate in multicenter clinical trials.
Care into Adulthood
Our pediatric neuroimmunology team cares for children until they reach early 20s. At that time, patients can seamlessly transition care to our adult programs that offer an equal level of expertise and compassion. Learn more about our adult neuroimmunology centers and programs: