Dr. Isitan Alkawadri, an Assistant Professor of Neurology at the Multiple Sclerosis Care Center of UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, joined the faculty in 2018. She completed her Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology training at Yale University. She did her medical training in Istanbul, Turkey and neurology residency at Boston University Medical Center.
Dr. Isitan Alkawadri is dedicated to treating patients with various autoimmune neurologic disorders, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD), Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) ab disease, neurosarcoidosis, autoimmune encephalitis, and other immune-mediated inflammatory conditions affecting the brain and spinal cord. Recently, she established a multidisciplinary autoimmune encephalitis clinic that collaborates with epilepsy and neuropsychiatry departments to enhance patient care.
Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Alkawadri has a specific interest in researching neuro-imaging biomarkers of MS. She also serves as the co-director/clinical director of the neuroimmunology/multiple sclerosis fellowship program.
Dr. Isitan Alkawadri possesses an unwavering passion for educating aspiring doctors and strives to become an influential figure for trainees. Her role as a lecturer and mentor allows her to interact with students, residents, and fellows, nurturing their growth and inspiring them along their journey.
Demonstrating her exceptional commitment to teaching and patient care, Dr. Isitan Alkawadri has received prestigious accolades. The Arnold P. Gold Foundation recognized her with the Humanism and Excellence Award for her compassionate approach to teaching and patient interactions. Furthermore, in 2016, she was honored with the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Quality Improvement & Patient Safety Award, a testament to her dedication to improving healthcare standards for the benefit of patients.
She also received AAN fellow scholar award in 2017-2018. She was given Clerkship Preceptor of the Year Award by University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine in 2020 for outstanding teaching.
Please view Dr. Isitan Alkawadri's profile on the Autoimmune Ecephalitis Alliance here.