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Shiv Saidha

Shiv Saidha, MBBCh, MD

Neurology

Accepting New Patients

Highlights

Age Groups Seen

  • Infant 0-2
  • Child 3-12
  • Adolescent 13-17
  • Young Adult 18-25
  • Adult 26-64
  • Older Adult 65+

Languages

  • English

Gender

Male

Johns Hopkins Affiliations:

  • Johns Hopkins School of Medicine Faculty

About Shiv Saidha

Primary Academic Title

Professor of Neurology

Johns Hopkins Physician

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Background


Dr. Shiv Saidha specializes in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS), as well as other neuroimmunological disorders of the central nervous system, including those afflicting the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves.

Dr. Saidha received his medical degree, as well as his postgraduate Doctor of Medicine, from the National University of Ireland, Galway (NUIG), Ireland. He completed residency training in general internal medicine at Galway University Hospitals, Ireland. Subsequent to this he completed residency training in neurology at Galway, Cork, and Beaumont (located in Dublin) University Hospitals, Ireland. He then completed a further three years of specialized fellowship training in neuroimmunology & neuroinfectious diseases at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.

Dr. Saidha’s research interests to date have predominantly focused on the non-invasive interrogation of retinal structures using optical coherence tomography (OCT) in multiple sclerosis (MS), in order to identify and investigate novel outcome strategies for assessing and monitoring neuroprotection and neurorestoration in MS, as well as to further our understanding of the pathobiology of MS, including how retinal pathology in MS may be related to more global central nervous system disturbances. He has been at the fore of discovering and demonstrating that inner and outer retinal layer pathology occur within the unmyelinated retina in MS (both quantitatively and qualitatively). He is committed to continuing to delineate and ascertain the mechanisms involved in the development of these findings, the clinical relevance of these changes (both locally in the retina, as well as more globally), and determine if this information may be used to guide the development of new, and potentially unique/novel effective MS therapies. His work to date has been primarily structurally focused (both within the retina using OCT, as well as more globally within the central nervous system through the assessment of brain substructure volumes, diffusion tensor imaging & magnetization transfer ratio metrics within specific pathways in MS). He also has expertise in the functional assessment of the anterior visual pathway in MS through the application of multifocal electroretinography and pupillometry techniques amongst others. He has published first author papers in Lancet, Lancet Neurology, Brain, Neurology, JAMA neurology, Archives of Neurology and Multiple Sclerosis Journal amongst authors.

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Research Summary

Dr. Saidha's research interests to date have predominantly focused on the non-invasive interrogation of retinal structures using optical coherence tomography (OCT) in multiple sclerosis (MS), in order to identify and investigate novel outcome strategies for assessing and monitoring neuroprotection and neurorestoration in MS, as well as to further our understanding of the pathobiology of MS, including how retinal pathology in MS may be related to more global central nervous system disturbances. He has been at the fore of discovering and demonstrating that inner and outer retinal layer pathology occur within the unmyelinated retina in MS (both quantitatively and qualitatively). He is committed to continuing to delineate and ascertain the mechanisms involved in the development of these findings, the clinical relevance of these changes (both locally in the retina, as well as more globally), and determine if this information may be used to guide the development of new, and potentially unique/novel effective MS therapies. His work to date has been primarily structurally focused (both within the retina using OCT, as well as more globally within the central nervous system through the assessment of brain substructure volumes, diffusion tensor imaging & magnetization transfer ratio metrics within specific pathways in MS).

Selected Publications

  • Liu Y, Carass A, He Y, Antony B, Filippatou A, Saidha S, Solomon S, Calabresi P, Prince J. Layer boundary evolution method for macular OCT layer segmentation. (Biomed Opt Express, 2019 Feb 4;10:1064-1080)

  • Murphy O, Kwakyi O, Iftikhar M, Zafar S, Lambe J, Pellegrini N, Sotirchos E, Gonzalez-Caldito N, Ogbuokiri E, Filippatou A, Risher H, Cowley N, Feldman S, Fioravante N, Frohman EM, Frohman T, Balcer L, Prince J, Channa R, Calabresi P, Saidha S. Alterations in the retinal vasculature occur in multiple sclerosis and exhibit novel correlations with disability and visual function measures. (Multiple Sclerosis Journal. 2019 May 16)

  • Nguyen J, Rothman A, Caldito N, Avornu A, Ogbuokiri E, Balcer L, Galetta A, Frohman E, Frohman T, Crainiceanu C, Calabresi P, Saidha S. Macular ganglion cell and inner plexiform layer thickness is more strongly associated with visual function in multiple sclerosis than Bruch membrane opening minimum rim width or peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thicknesses. (Journal of Neuro-ophthalmology, 2019 Mar 26)

  • Nolan R, Liu M, Akhand O, Calabresi P, Paul F, Petzold A, Balk L, Brandt A, Martínez-Lapiscina E, Saidha S, Villoslada P, Al-Hassan A, Behbehani R, Frohman E, Frohman T, Havla J, Hemmer B, Jiang H, Knier B, Korn T, Leocani L, Papadopoulou A, Pisa M, Zimmermann H, Galetta SL, Balcer L; IMSVISUAL Consortium. Optimal Inter-Eye Difference Thresholds by OCT in MS: An International Study. (Annals of Neurology, 2019 Mar 9)

  • Rothman A, Murphy O, Fitzgerald K, Button J, Gordon-Lipkin E, Ratchford J, Newsome S, Mowry E, Sotirchos E, Syc-Mazurek S, Nguyen J, Caldito N, Balcer L, Frohman E, Frohman T, Reich D, Crainiceanu C, Saidha S, Calabresi P. Retinal measurements predict 10-year disability in multiple sclerosis. (Annals of Clinical and Translational Neurology, 2019 Jan 19;6:222-232)

Honors

  • Awarded ECTRIMS/RIMS 2010 Travel Grant, ECTRIMS/RIMS
  • Awarded ECTRIMS/RIMS 2011 Travel Grant, ECTRIMS/RIMS
  • Awarded ECTRIMS/RIMS 2012 Travel Grant, ECTRIMS/RIMS
  • Awarded Teva Neuroscience 2011 Educational Grant, Teva
  • Certified for EDSS examination, Neurostatus
  • Medical Director for anaccredited Continuing Medical Education program, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
  • Medical Director for an accredited Continuing Medical Education program, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ)
  • Director of the Johns Hopkins Neuroimmunology and neurological infections case conference program, Johns Hopkins, 1/7/10
  • Prize for best oral presentation by a young investigator at ECTRIMS, Multiple Sclerosis International Federation (MSIF), 1/1/10
  • Michael J O' Donnell memorial prize, NUI Galway, 1/1/08

Lectures & Presentations

  • A novel retinal phenotype in multiple sclerosis is predictive of inflammatory disease activity and disability progression, ECTRIMS, 10/10/12
  • Another patient with A learning disability in decline?, RAMI registrar prize, 11/1/08
  • Bilateral brachial neuropathy and an unexpected aortic dissection; A case report, Irish neuromuscular meeting, 5/10/08
  • Clinical and radiological disease activity is associated with accelerated rates of retinal ganglion cell layer degeneration in multiple sclerosis, AAN, 4/24/12
  • Cross-sectional relationships between retinal segmentation and brain sub-structure volumes in multiple sclerosis, ECTRIMS/ACTRIMS, 10/20/11
  • In-vivo assessment of retinal axonal and neuronal integrity & pathology in MS with optical coherence tomography, Neurology Grand Rounds, Zurich University, 12/18/12
  • In-vivo assessment of retinal axonal and neuronal integrity in MS with optical coherence tomography, CMSC/ACTRIMS, University of Texas Southwestern, 5/31/12
  • Multiple sclerosis presenting with parkinsonism; A case report, Irish neurological association 44th annual meeting, 5/8/08
  • Novel optical coherence tomography techniques in MS; Emerging evidence for primary retinal neuronal mechanisms of pathology, Neurology Grand Rounds, 5/16/12
  • Optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the eye; A window into the MS disease process, United States Project Restore Board Meeting, 3/30/12
  • Optical Coherence Tomography as A Tool for Monitoring Changes and Treatment Effects in MS, New York Academy of Sciences Conference on Imaging Neurodegeneration and repair in MS, 6/15/12
  • Peri-procedural neuropathy; A retrospective review, RAMI registrar prize, 11/1/08
  • Primary retinal pathology in multiple sclerosis as detected by Optical Coherence Tomography, ECTRIMS, 10/13/10
  • Progressive encephalomyelitis with rigidity and autoimmune polyglandular syndrome; A case report, Irish neurological association 42nd annual meeting, 5/11/06
  • Retinal neuronal loss in multiple sclerosis; Extending the utility of optical coherence tomography with retinal segmentation, AAN, 4/13/11
  • Transverse Myelitis and Acute Motor axonal neuropathy, RAMI registrar prize, 11/1/07

Memberships

  • American Academy of Neurology (AAN), Member
  • Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry (JNNP), Journal of Neurology, European Journal of Neurology, PLoS ONE
  • New York Academy of Sciences (NYAS), Member

Locations

  1. Levi Watkins, Jr., M.D., Outpatient Center

Expertise

Education

  • Fellowship: Beaumont University Hospital, Neurology, 2013
  • Fellowship: Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Neurology, 2012
  • Residency: Cork University Hospital, Neurology, 2009
  • Residency: University of Dublin Trinity College, Medicine, 2007
  • Medical Education: National University of Ireland, MBBCh, 2004

Insurance

Please contact the location directly to confirm your health plan is accepted.
Search plans
  • Aetna
  • CareFirst
  • Cigna
  • First Health
  • Geisinger Health Plan
  • HealthSmart/Accel
  • Johns Hopkins Health Plans
  • MultiPlan
  • Pennsylvania's Preferred Health Networks (PPHN)
  • Point Comfort Underwriters
  • Private Healthcare Systems (PHCS)
  • Veteran Affairs Community Care Network (Optum-VACCN)

Ratings & Reviews

4.9 out of 5

118 ratings, 55 reviews

The Patient Rating score is an average of all responses to physician related questions on the national CG-CAHPS Medical Practice patient experience survey through Press Ganey. Responses are measured on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the best score. Comments are also gathered from our CG-CAHPS Medical Practice Survey through Press Ganey and displayed in their entirety. Patients are de-identified for confidentiality and patient privacy.

Overall Rating by Patient
Provider Listened Carefully
Provider Explained Things Clearly
Provider Knew Medical History
Provider Showed Respect
Provider Spent Enough Time
Search reviews
    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/23/2026

    Very good

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/16/2026

    The best ever!!!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/2/2026

    Dr. Saidha is great. Always appreciate that he explains things in a way I understand and answers my questions.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/2/2026

    Always a great experience

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/23/2026

    Dr. Saidha is a wonderful doctor. I feel very fortunate to be in his care.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/23/2026

    I've been going to my provider, Dr. Saidha since 2017 and he's very good. Transparent and easy to discuss my concerns with.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/23/2026

    I love that he laid out a plan moving forward. He answered all the questions I was wondering out.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/23/2026

    My daughter know how to treat me and it's very knowledgeable about my health condition

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/9/2026

    Best MS Dr. I've ever had.

    4 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/9/2026

    Dr. Saidha has helped me to accept my disease & to be proud of it. Proud of myself for fighting 22yrs!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/3/2026

    Always thoughtful and answers all my questions.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/27/2026

    Dr Saidha is the best. He always is very reassuring and always knows everything about my medical history.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/27/2026

    Dr. Saidha is ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL! He is personable, attentive, thorough, and knowledgeable. He conveys information in an understandable way and includes me in treatment decisions. I am very grateful that we found him as my neurologist!!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/26/2026

    I absolutely am grateful for Dr. Saidha and [staff]. They have both been a help to me in my healing. They listen to me and help me with any concerns I have.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/26/2026

    Excellent

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/20/2026

    Excellent, thoughtful, well prepared

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/13/2026

    The best position that I have! A wealth of knowledge recording my MS and potential direction going forward. He's a blessing to our family

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/12/2026

    Thoughtful, professional, knowledgeble

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/12/2026

    I have been with Dr Saidha for about 6 years now & think he is the best Dr I have ever had!!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/16/2025

    He was very pleasant. I appreciate how he was knowledgeable about my condition. He made me feel comfortable. Also the same with his assistant. Thanks.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/16/2025

    [staff] & Dr Shiv Saidha are amazing

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/15/2025

    I live in Ocean City which is about 3 hours from Hopkins!! I would contine to make that trip because Dr. Shiv Saidha is that WONDERFUL.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/8/2025

    Can't say enough good things about Dr. Saidha. He is extremely knowledgeable and can explain my treatment in a way that someone who is not a doctor can understand.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/8/2025

    By far, the most knowledgeable and thorough Neurologist I have met with since my Multiple Sclerosis was diagnosed in 2020. Inquisitive, analytic, and an excellent communicator. Understood my medical history, asked good questions about my current health, and offered expert insights and explanations regarding my condition. My wife and I are confident we are under excellent care.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/1/2025

    Professional, patient, kind, and informative

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/17/2025

    He is the Best provider I have ever seen. He is proactive in my care and helps to explain things so that I can understand. He is always responsive

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/17/2025

    Very down to earth, spoke in a vocabulary that I could easily understand. Changed my mood when needed to make me laugh.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/10/2025

    Dr. Saidha is always very personable and thorough in his assessment of me. I appreciate that his team took the time to show me some more details from my most recent MRI.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/10/2025

    Shiv is the Best!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/4/2025

    Excellent provider! My condition stumped Dr. Saidha but he researched my MRI's along with another doctor and listened to me and decided to change my medication. Also he did bloodwork and confirmed what I had been telling him.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/28/2025

    Dr. Saidha is the best provider I have ever seen. He knows how stuff I can tell you that. He is like a Platinum provider you won't find another him

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/27/2025

    Dr Saidha is great. He listens and responds to my questions with respect and concern.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/21/2025

    Always genuine, respectful, and down to earth. I drive very far just to see him-would never change or substitute. Always me to participate and have a role in my care.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/21/2025

    My provider was pleasant and offered helpful information.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/7/2025

    Best Neurologist around

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/6/2025

    Best Dr I've had.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/29/2025

    I cannot say enough good things about my visit. He listened to me was caring and also provided knowledge about my disease that has never been discussed with me prior to coming here. He got my testing started to get all of the updated information that he needs to get to put me on the best possible path for managing my disease

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/22/2025

    Dr. Saidha is an excellent doctor and I have the utmost confidence in his care!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/16/2025

    Loved everyone I spoke with.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/15/2025

    Very understandable and explained my symptoms so I understand

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/9/2025

    I'm grateful that I can continue receiving care from Dr. Saidha despite the United Healthcare issue. He is compassionate and offers valuable insights and recommendations for managing my MS. He also takes the time to explain everything in a way that's easy for me to understand and apply.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/2/2025

    The provider is exceptional but I wish that appointment were more accessible.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/26/2025

    The best!

    4 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/26/2025

    Dr Saidha, is a very knowledgeable provider. He is responsive and thorough in his approach. He is thoughtful and methodical, and he is personable.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/19/2025

    He's amazing!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/19/2025

    Dr Saidha is THE BEST!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/5/2025

    I consider Dr. Shiv Saidha my PCP. He knows my medical history in and out and has a wealth of knowledge in the field of Neurology and potential medication and treatment options.I consider this doctor a blessing and he has been integral since my MS diagnosis in 2019. Sincerest thanks.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/17/2025

    Dr. Saidha is very knowledgeable and compassionate.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/17/2025

    [staff] at vitals was respectful and friendly, Dr Saidha and female doctor were amazing explaining everythi g

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/16/2025

    Dr. Saidha and the neurology team at Hopkins are the best of the best.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/10/2025

    It's always a wonderful experience speaking with the doctor

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/9/2025

    The appointment calendar is full through December, so not able to make a follow up appointment at the desk. This was also a problem previously which is why I ended up being scheduled almost a whole year, v 6 months follow up. Need to call the office. Last time I called and the calendar was not open, then months went by before circling back. All Mychart correspondence w Dr S is answered immediately.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/13/2025

    Dr. Saidha is excellent doctor and very knowledgeable.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/28/2025

    Excellent!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/21/2025

    Dr. Saidha is very good.