Center for Pediatric Rasmussen Syndrome

Our center offers the full spectrum of services for children with Rasmussen syndrome (Rasmussen encephalitis), including diagnosis and medical and surgical treatment. We treat children from birth to 21 years of age. Our team includes neurologists (including neuroimmunologists), neurosurgeons, and neuropathologists familiar with Rasmussen syndrome and conditions that mimic it. We partner closely with experts in rehabilitation and neuropsychology at the Kennedy Krieger Institute to provide the continuum of care. 

Our Team

Johns Hopkins physicians are recognized as leaders in the treatment of Rasmussen syndrome, providing specialized and compassionate care.

  • Adam Hartman, M.D.

    • Director, Center for Pediatric Rasmussen Syndrome

    Expertise: Epilepsy, Ketogenic Diet, Neurology

  • Carlos A Pardo-Villamizar, M.D.

    • Professor of Neurology
    • Professor of Pathology

    Expertise: Multiple Sclerosis, Neurology, Transverse Myelitis

  • Aylin Tekes, M.D.

    • Section Chief, Pediatric Neuroradiology
    • Pediatric Radiology and Pediatric Neuroradiology Fellowship Director
    • Associate Professor of Radiology and Radiological Science
    • Joint Appointment in Pediatrics

    Expertise: Diagnostic Radiology, Pediatric Neuroradiology, Pediatric Radiology, Radiology

Extended Care Team

Other doctors and health care professionals with special expertise in Rasmussen Syndrome may be part of your care team, including:

  • Critical care doctors and nurses
  • Neuropsychologists
  • Physical, speech and occupational therapists
  • Child life specialists
  • Behavior psychologists
  • Social workers

Rasmussen Syndrome Research

Our patients benefit from collaborative research that addresses the quality of life, physical and mental aspects of the condition and the child. Johns Hopkins researchers are dedicated to improving functional outcomes after surgery and advancing the understanding of the underlying immune changes that occur in Rasmussen syndrome. Our goal is to provide your child with the best chance at recovery.