Letter from the Department Chair

The focus of the UC Davis Department of Neurology is on investigating novel and innovative approaches to understanding and treating neurological disease. While the role of the clinical neurologist historically was perceived as a supportive one, only consulting with those treating the patient’s symptoms, today’s neurologists are armed with an ever-increasing array of high-tech diagnostic tools and an impressive catalog of treatment options. From the care of those suffering from migraines to that of those struggling with epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis, the practice of neurology continues to evolve.

Despite this progress, the fact remains that we know more about basic neurological science today than our list of treatment options might suggest. There is a great deal about the underlying cause of neurological disease that we do not understand. That is the reason why our department places so much emphasis on the research that one day will offer an even greater menu of treatment options. We do, however, have at our disposal enough information to translate new discoveries into novel therapies. We have begun to see how the scientific knowledge we’ve gathered to date can be applied to the treatment of neurological diseases today.

Our department is intensely focused on realizing the promise of research into the neurosciences and on bringing to fruition a new reality of improved patient care for those suffering from neurological and neurodegenerative conditions. As we look toward this bright horizon of greater understanding of the brain and nervous system, we see a better day ahead for those struggling to overcome neurological conditions.