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Enteroviral meningoencephalitis in immunocompromised children after matched unrelated donor-bone marrow

G Fischmeister1, P Wiesbauer, H M Holzmann

  • 1St. Anna Children's Hospital, Vienna, Austria. fischmeister@ccri.univie.ac.at

Pediatric Hematology and Oncology
|July 29, 2000
PubMed

Insights

Post-bone marrow transplant seizures in children can be caused by enteroviral meningoencephalitis. Early diagnosis using MRI and PCR is crucial for recovery without neurological issues.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Hematology/Oncology

Background:

  • Bone marrow transplantation (BMT) is a critical treatment for various pediatric conditions.
  • Post-transplant complications can include neurological issues, necessitating careful differential diagnosis.

Observation:

  • Two children developed fever and seizures post-BMT.
  • Brain MRI revealed transient multifocal lesions.
  • Enterovirus was identified in one patient's spinal fluid and the other's sputum.

Findings:

  • Enteroviral meningoencephalitis presented as seizures in the post-transplant period.
  • Prompt diagnosis and management led to complete recovery without neurological sequelae.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was vital for identifying brain lesions.

Implications:

  • Highlights enteroviral infections as a cause of seizures in BMT recipients.
  • Emphasizes the importance of MRI in neuroimaging for post-transplant complications.
  • Underscores viral infections as a key differential diagnosis alongside cyclosporin A neurotoxicity.

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