July 21, 2021

First ALD Clinic Complete!

On Tuesday, July 20th we had our first Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) Clinic at VUMC. ALD is a rare genetic peroxisomal metabolic disorder that affects myelin, the membrane that insulates nerves in the brain and spinal cord. Our patients with ALD can have symptoms that generally impact the nervous system and adrenal glands. Our specialized team consists of a Neurologist (Dr. Kevin Ess), Endocrinologist (Dr. Nidhi Gupta), Hematologist (Dr. James Connelly), Geneticist (Dr. Thomas Morgan), Genetic Nurse Practitioner (Allison Shields), and Clinical Coordinator (Elizabeth Hinckley). Together our team focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of ALD.

Why is a clinic different than a normal visit with my doctor?

The ALD Clinic at VUMC Children's Hospital is a collaboration between the Departments of Neurology, Endocrinology, Hematology/Oncology, and Genetics and Genomic Medicine. We diagnose and treat children, teens, and adults with this peroxisomal metabolic disorder. When a patient with ALD attends our clinic, they will be able to see multiple specialists in one visit so that care coordination is easier and more complete!