Episode Details

Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD) need to be diagnosed and treated fast with highly effective therapies for a good prognosis.

You can read the transcript of the interview here: https://ms-perspektive.com/87-luis-alfonso-zarco

Living with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) can be challenging. But the more you understand about the condition and the latest research and treatment options, the better off you'll be. In this interview, Professor Luis Alfonso Zarco, a leading neurologist from Colombia who specializes in NMOSD, shares insights into the symptoms, treatments, and advances in care for this rare autoimmune disease. Whether you have just been diagnosed or have been living with NMOSD for years, this conversation will give you a deep dive into the fundamentals of NMOSD care, from early recognition to personalized treatment options. Learn why timely intervention is important, how NMOSD differs from multiple sclerosis, and what the future may hold for NMOSD patients.

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• Introduction – Who is Prof. Dr. Luis Alfonso Zarco Montero?
• Understanding Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD)
• NMOSD Disease Course and Prognosis
• First-Line Treatment Options for NMOSD
• Challenges and Accessibility in NMOSD Treatment
• Future Directions in NMOSD Treatment
• Quickfire Q&A Session
• Farewell

Introduction – Who is Prof. Dr. Luis Alfonso Zarco Montero?

I'm Luis Alfonso Zarco, born in Barranquilla on Colombia's Caribbean coast. I studied medicine at Universidad del Norte in Barranquilla and later specialized in neurology at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Bogotá. I also trained as a neuroimmunologist at Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, and I'm currently a candidate for a Master's degree in Multiple Sclerosis from Dresden International University and a fellow of the European Charcot Foundation. Currently, I'm based in Bogotá, where I work at Hospital Universitario San Ignacio and serve as a neurology professor at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana. As director of the Neuroscience Department, I oversee cases of high complexity. I'm married to Angelica Rico, a nurse specializing in occupational health, and we have two children: Maria Paula, a lawyer, and Luis Carlos, studying finance. I'm passionate about my work, especially caring for patients with demyelinating diseases like NMOSD. This work is meaningful because these conditions affect people's quality of life, their aspirations, and dreams, and we can pl