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Brain MRI findings in influenza A-associated acute necrotizing encephalopathy of childhood

K A Voudris1, A Skaardoutsou, I Haronitis

  • 1Second Department of Paediatrics, University of Athens, 'P & A Kyriakou' Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece. ppk@otenet.gr

European Journal of Paediatric Neurology : EJPN : Official Journal of the European Paediatric Neurology Society
|October 5, 2001
PubMed

Insights

Acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE) is rare in Western countries. This case highlights a 10-year-old boy with ANE following influenza A, showing typical MRI lesions and a full recovery.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE) is a rare neurological complication associated with influenza infections.
  • While frequently reported in East Asian countries, ANE is seldom observed in Western populations.

Observation:

  • A 10-year-old European boy presented with symptoms suggestive of ANE.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed symmetrical lesions in the thalamus and brainstem.
  • Influenza A infection was serologically confirmed two weeks post-symptom onset.

Findings:

  • The patient exhibited characteristic neuroimaging findings of ANE.
  • The case demonstrates a rare occurrence of ANE in a European child.
  • Influenza A was identified as the causative agent.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering ANE in children with neurological symptoms following influenza, even in regions where it is rare.
  • The striking MRI findings and positive neurological outcome in this patient provide valuable insights into the condition's presentation and potential for recovery.
  • Further research may elucidate the specific factors contributing to the geographical disparity in ANE incidence.

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