The situation
Two attacks, an abnormal MRI, an MS label, and a start date for an MS disease-modifying drug. Something nagged: severe attacks, unusual imaging pattern.
What we did
Before travel, PUMCH's neuroimmunology team reviewed the MRI and records (written second opinion from $400) and requested one missing test: AQP4 antibodies. The patient flew in for a three-day workup — repeat imaging and the antibody panel.
What was found
AQP4-positive NMOSD — an MS mimic requiring different drugs; some MS therapies can actually aggravate it. Treatment was switched accordingly, with an English protocol for home continuation.
Outcome
No relapses on the corrected therapy at latest follow-up; the case became the family's cautionary tale about treating labels instead of diagnoses.
*This is an anonymized, composite case based on real coordination journeys; identifying details are changed or combined for privacy. Outcomes vary — nothing here is a promise of results.*