Neuro-Infectious Diseases

We study, diagnose and treat a range of infectious diseases that affect the nervous system. Our specialists partner with research networks across the globe to expand access to clinical trials and expertise.

3D illustration showing brain and close-up view of viruses and neurons
C4 Disc - Cervical Spine

UCLA Health approach to neuro-infectious disease

Our neuro-infectious disease specialists care for people with chronic infectious diseases that affect the brain, spine or nerves. We offer initial assessments, second opinions and ongoing treatment.

Highlights of our program include:

Research focus: Our specialists participate in clinical trials to continually offer the latest treatments. We partner with the UCLA Health AIDS Clinical Trials Group and the National Neurologic AIDS Consortium to expand patient access to these new therapies.

Worldwide collaboration: We work with the National Neurological AIDS Bank (NNAB), a long-term study of people with advanced AIDS and other serious diseases. Volunteers have neurological exams throughout their life and donate their organs to the study in the event of their death. This collaboration expands our reach to work with expert neurologists from all over the world.

Emphasis on education: As an academic center, we commit to training the next generation of leaders. We teach best practices to residents, fellows and postdoctoral researchers. Patients who choose our team are choosing physicians who are leaders in their field.

Neuro-infectious diseases we treat

Our specialists care for patients with infectious diseases that affect their nervous system, including:

Hepatitis C: A viral infection that causes liver inflammation, often leading to chronic liver disease

HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND): Cognitive impairment and dementia that may occur in some people with HIV and AIDS

HTLV-I/II (human T-lymphotropic viruses, type I and type II): A progressive disease, also known as HTLV-1 associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP), that affects the spinal cord, leading to difficulty walking, pain and stiffness

Meningitis: Inflammation in the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, typically caused by a bacterial or viral infection

Neurosarcoidosis: Chronic inflammation in the central nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord and certain nerves

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy: A chronic disease that attacks myelin, the substance that covers the brain’s nerve cells

Transverse myelitis: Inflammation in the spinal cord leading to muscle weakness, tingling and bladder or bowel dysfunction

Our expert team

We study, diagnose and treat infectious diseases that affect the brain, spine and nerves. Our specialists collaborate with multiple organizations worldwide to offer the most effective treatments through clinical trials.

Contact us

Call 310-794-1195 to request an appointment with a neuro-infectious disease specialist at UCLA Health.

Find your care

To learn more about the Neuro-infectious Diseases Program at UCLA Health, call 310-794-1195.