AAN 2022 | Status of NMOSD in Latin America

Victor Rivera, MD, FAAN, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, discusses neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) in Latin America. NMOSD has become an attractive field of research because it affects a larger demographic than the Caucasian population and is prevalent in Latin America. Therefore, from an epidemiological point of view, it is significantly different from multiple sclerosis. From a diagnostic perspective, in many countries across Latin America, there is a lack of availability or funding for the traditional, sensitive tests for NMOSD – resulting in poor capability for treatment. However, through discussions with health officials and leaders in demyelinating disorders, greater diagnostic and treatment capabilities can be implemented with time. This interview took place during the American Academy of Neurology 2022 Congress in Seattle, WA.