About
Dr. Marianne Catherine Schwarz is a dedicated Neurologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles in adult patients. Practicing at a neurology clinic within Vancouver, BC, she is an integral part of the local medical community. She provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. Her approach is centered on delivering personalized, compassionate, and evidence-based neurological care, ensuring patients receive the support and treatment they need to manage their health effectively.
Dr. Schwarz graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia (Canada) and holds specialty certification as a Neurologist. She is fully credentialed and maintains active licensure with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), holding license number 34778. Her professional credentials include certifications from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to maintaining high standards in neurological practice.
Guided by a patient-centered philosophy, Dr. Schwarz is dedicated to providing thorough, holistic, and compassionate neurological care. She emphasizes ongoing patient education, clear communication, and a collaborative approach to diagnosis and treatment planning. Fluent in English, she strives to empower her patients in Vancouver with the knowledge and support necessary to navigate their neurological health journeys confidently.
Dr. Marianne Schwarz addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)
- Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.
- Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Problems: Sensations of spinning, unsteadiness, or lightheadedness that may indicate an underlying neurological issue.
- Numbness, Tingling & Weakness (Focal or Generalized): Sensory changes or loss of strength in limbs or other body parts, potentially due to nerve or muscle disorders.
Cognitive Disorders & Dementia
- Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD): A group of disorders that primarily affect the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, leading to changes in personality, behavior, and language.
- Vascular Dementia: Dementia caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often due to stroke or a series of small strokes.
- Alzheimer's Disease: A progressive neurodegenerative disease that is the most common cause of dementia, affecting memory, thinking, and behavior.
Multiple Sclerosis & Demyelinating Diseases
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - Relapsing-Remitting, Primary Progressive, Secondary Progressive: A chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) by damaging the myelin sheath.
- Transverse Myelitis: Inflammation of the spinal cord, often causing weakness, sensory changes, and autonomic dysfunction below the level of the lesion.
- Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD): An autoimmune inflammatory disorder primarily affecting the optic nerves and spinal cord.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Marianne Schwarz.
- Comprehensive Neurological Consultation & Examination: In-depth evaluation of symptoms related to the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles, including detailed medical history, neurological examination, and diagnostic planning.
- Interpretation of Neurological Imaging (MRI, CT scans): Expert review and interpretation of brain and spinal cord imaging to aid in the diagnosis of neurological conditions.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
- Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
- Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
- Evoked Potential Studies (Visual, Auditory, Somatosensory): Tests that measure the electrical activity in the brain in response to stimulation of sight, sound, or touch, often used in diagnosing MS and other conditions.
- Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Schwarz for care relevant to your needs.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Dr. Schwarz practices at a well-equipped neurology clinic located in Vancouver's vibrant Yaletown, Downtown South neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near the Vancouver Art Gallery and Robson Square, offering a central location accessible via multiple modes of public transit including TransLink's SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront) services. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility for those arriving by car, providing a comfortable and accessible environment for every patient.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Schwarz, a Neurologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Schwarz, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Coverage for specific medications, especially newer biologic therapies for conditions like MS or migraine, can vary by provincial formularies and may require special authorization. Some specialized procedures or devices may also have specific coverage criteria. It's always best to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Schwarz's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Schwarz, a Neurologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Schwarz for assessment or treatment of a neurological condition. This ensures your care is coordinated, that preliminary investigations may have been done, and that you are directed to the most appropriate specialist for your specific symptoms or suspected diagnosis.
- How does Dr. Schwarz manage Parkinson's disease?
- Management of Parkinson's disease is aimed at controlling symptoms and improving quality of life. This typically involves medications that increase dopamine levels in the brain (like levodopa) or mimic its effects. Other medications can help with non-motor symptoms. Dr. Schwarz will also emphasize the importance of exercise, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. For some patients with advanced Parkinson's disease, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery may be an option. Care is highly individualized.
- How are migraines typically managed by a Neurologist?
- Migraine management is multifaceted. Dr. Schwarz will work with you to identify triggers, discuss lifestyle modifications (diet, sleep, stress management), and recommend acute treatments to stop a migraine when it occurs (e.g., triptans, CGRP antagonists). For frequent or severe migraines, preventive treatments may be prescribed, which can include oral medications, botulinum toxin (Botox) injections, or newer CGRP monoclonal antibodies. A personalized treatment plan is key.
- What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Schwarz?
- Your first appointment with Dr. Schwarz will likely be quite thorough. She will take a detailed medical history, including your current symptoms, past illnesses, family history of neurological conditions, and any medications you are taking. A comprehensive neurological examination will be performed, which assesses things like your mental status, cranial nerves (vision, hearing, facial movement), strength, coordination, reflexes, and sensation. Based on this, Dr. Schwarz may discuss potential diagnoses, order further tests (like an MRI, EEG, or blood work), or suggest initial treatment options. Bring a list of your medications and any relevant medical records or imaging reports if you have them.
- What are the treatment options for epilepsy?
- The primary treatment for epilepsy is anti-seizure medication (ASM), formerly known as anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs). There are many different ASMs available, and the choice depends on the type of seizures, epilepsy syndrome, age, other medical conditions, and potential side effects. For some individuals whose seizures are not controlled by medication (drug-resistant epilepsy), other options may include dietary therapies (like the ketogenic diet), neurostimulation devices (like Vagus Nerve Stimulation - VNS), or epilepsy surgery. Dr. Schwarz can discuss the most appropriate treatment pathway.
- What does a Neurologist like Dr. Schwarz specialize in?
- A Neurologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of disorders affecting the nervous system. This includes the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves (nerves outside the brain and spinal cord), and muscles. She is a Neurologist specializing in disorders of the nervous system. Dr. Schwarz is trained to investigate, diagnose, and treat a wide range of neurological conditions.
1290 Hornby St
Vancouver, BC V6Z 1W2
Phone: (604) 416-1821 | Fax: (236) 521-3634
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Schwarz is a licensed Neurologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Schwarz for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/339225/Schwarz%2CMarianne