Lebanon has made significant strides in the field of neurology, especially in recent years. This progress is a result of the country’s advancements in medical education and research.
One of the key institutions driving this progress is the American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC). AUBMC has been a pioneer in neurology education and has trained many skilled neurologists. They have also established specialized centers like the Abu-Haidar Neuroscience Institute (AHNI) to focus on specific conditions like epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis.
With the increasing number of people suffering from neurological disorders in Lebanon, there is a growing need for specialized care. To address this, efforts are underway to establish specialized clinics and train more neurologists. Lebanon has thus commitment to neurology with its world-class facilities, comprehensive care, and a strong focus on education and research.
What is a Neurologist?
Neurologists are doctors who specialize in the brain and nervous system. They diagnose, treat, and manage conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Neurologists understand how the nervous system works and what can go wrong with it. Your nervous system controls everything you do, from thinking and feeling to moving and breathing.
A pediatric neurologist specializes in brain and nervous system disorders in children. They treat conditions similar to those seen in adults, as well as conditions that are specific to children, such as birth defects and developmental delays.
How Do Neurologists Diagnose Conditions?

To figure out what’s wrong, your neurologist will first ask you about your health history, family history, medications, and any symptoms you’re experiencing.
Then, they will do a physical exam to check things like:
- How well you can move and balance
- Your muscle strength
- Your mental health
- Your vision, hearing, and speech
- How well you can feel things
To get a better picture, your neurologist might also order tests, such as:
- Blood tests
- Urine tests
- Genetic tests
- Scans of your brain or spine
Once they know what’s causing your problems, your neurologist can create a treatment plan. This might include medications, physical therapy, or other approaches.
Who are the 20 Best Neurologists in Lebanon?
Lebanese neurologists are engaged in groundbreaking research, including neuro-immune mechanisms and pain management. Collaborative efforts with global institutions such as Northwestern University and the Karolinska Institutet have also enhanced their research outputs.
Here is a list of the 20 best neurologists in Lebanon, renowned for their expertise in the field. Furthermore, these neurologists are highly skilled in the treatment and management of various conditions, including acute spinal cord injury, brain tumors, seizures, epilepsy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), ataxia, Alzheimer’s disease, Bell’s palsy, cerebral aneurysm, traumatic brain injury, and more.
- Dr. Elie Assaf – Graduated from Saint Joseph University for Medical Sciences in Beirut in 1988, completed General Neurology from Saint Joseph University in 1994, and received his diploma of Clinical Epileptology as well as diploma of Neuroradiology from the University of Pierre ET Marie Curie, Faculty of Medicine, Paris VI
- Dr. Hassan Eid – Graduated from the University of Padua
- Dr. Nasser Assef – Specializes in physical medicine and rehabilitation and graduated from Maastricht University, Vinnitsa National Medical University
- Dr. Hamed Mostapha – Graduated from Kazan State Medical University in 2003
- Dr. Lamaa Maher – An expert in pediatric neurology
- Dr. Nancy Najib Maalouf – Graduated from Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences, Beirut in 2007
- Dr. Ahmad Beydoun – Graduated from the American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine, Beirut in 1985
- Dr. Khaled Ibrahim – An expert pediatric neurologist
- Dr. Rouchdi Ahdab – Graduated from Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences, Beirut.
- Dr. Naji Abi Fadel – Known for his expertise in epilepsy and multiple sclerosis treatment at Hôtel-Dieu de France in Beirut
- Dr. Fadi Kesserwani – Specializes in neuromuscular disorders
- Dr. Wissam Akiki – An expert in the treatment and management of neurodegenerative diseases
- Dr. Elias Maalouf – Specializes in the management of brain injuries in newborn infants
- Dr. Ghassan Maalouf – Renowned for his work in neuro-oncology
- Dr. Mounir Khalil – Focuses on cerebrovascular disorders
- Dr. Karim Khalifeh – An expert in pediatric neurology
- Dr. Nada Naaman – Specialist in sleep medicine and epilepsy
- Dr. Roula Abou Jawdeh – Experienced in neurophysiology at Hôtel-Dieu de France
- Dr. Mireille Chamoun – Specializes in neuro-rehabilitation
- Dr. Jeanine El-Helou – Graduated from Université Saint Joseph – Campus des Sciences Médicales
This list of 20 best neurologists in Lebanon highlights the excellence of Lebanese neurologists. These doctors are at the forefront of neurological advancements and contribute significantly to the medical field both locally and globally.
To Conclude
Lebanon is home to a diverse and accomplished group of neurologists who have gained expertise through prestigious education and years of dedicated practice. Moreover, these specialists cover a broad spectrum of neurological conditions, including acute spinal cord injury, brain tumors, epilepsy, ALS, and Alzheimer’s disease, among others. For instance, pioneers like Dr. Elie Assaf, who has advanced training in clinical epileptology and neuroradiology, exemplify the country’s commitment to excellence. Additionally, experts in pediatric neurology, such as Dr. Lamaa Maher, further highlight Lebanon’s wealth of skilled professionals addressing complex neurological challenges.
