Meet Doctor Dave: Your Expert Neurologist at Inova Health System

Dr. Rahul Davé is a highly respected, board-certified neurologist at Inova Health System, bringing his expertise to Inova Neurology since 2017. Patients seek out Doctor Dave for his specialized care in a wide range of neurological conditions, particularly his deep knowledge in multiple sclerosis and neuro-immunological disorders.

As a specialist, Doctor Dave focuses on providing cutting-edge treatment for complex conditions including neuromyelitis optica (NMO), optic neuritis, transverse myelitis, and neuro-sarcoidosis. His expertise extends to neurologic complications arising from rheumatologic diseases, autoimmune encephalitis, PML, inflammatory neuropathies, myasthenia gravis, paraneoplastic disorders, vasculitis, and neuro-infectious diseases, such as Lyme disease. This comprehensive understanding allows him to address a broad spectrum of patient needs with precision and care.

Doctor Dave‘s leadership is evident in his role as Medical Director of the esteemed Inova Multiple Sclerosis and Neuro-Immunology Center. This center has received national recognition from the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers, and is also honored as a “Partner” award recipient by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Under Doctor Dave’s guidance, the center provides interdisciplinary care and stands as a beacon of excellence for patients navigating these challenging conditions.

Beyond his clinical practice, Doctor Dave is committed to advancing the field of neurology through education and research. He is a sought-after lecturer on multiple sclerosis and related diseases, sharing his insights with peers and the wider medical community. He dedicates time to teaching students, shaping the next generation of medical professionals. Furthermore, Doctor Dave actively engages in research, contributing to the development of innovative therapies. His current research interests are centered on anti-MOG syndrome and exploring novel therapeutics for neuro-inflammatory disorders, positioning him at the forefront of advancements in his field.

Prior to his impactful work at Inova, Doctor Dave honed his skills at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). During his time at NIH, he evaluated complex multiple sclerosis cases, contributed to the Undiagnosed Diseases Program, and was instrumental in conducting numerous clinical trials and laboratory research initiatives. His dedication to research continues as he maintains a Special Volunteer appointment at NIH, where his current research is focused on Erdheim-Chester Disease.

Doctor Dave’s path to neurology is deeply personal, inspired by family members who faced neurologic diseases. This personal connection fuels his professional goal: to empower his patients to live full and active lives through comprehensive understanding and effective treatment of their conditions. He believes in a collaborative approach, ensuring patients are informed and actively involved in their care plans.

Having lived across the United States, Doctor Dave and his wife have found a home in the Washington, DC metro region, residing in Bethesda, MD. Outside of his demanding professional life, he enjoys hiking, cooking, and gardening, finding balance and rejuvenation in these activities.