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Induction and Clinical Scoring of Chronic-Relapsing Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
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Published on: July 4, 2007

Neurological complications of measles

P S Gunaratne1, T Rajendran, S Tilakaratne

  • 1Department of Neurology, Teaching Hospital, Kandy. pagunara@slt.lk

The Ceylon Medical Journal
|December 1, 2001
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Neurological complications of measles, including encephalitis and myelitis, were studied in 10 patients. While measles encephalitis was life-threatening with residual disability, myelitis patients recovered fully.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Measles remains a significant public health concern, particularly during outbreaks.
  • Neurological complications can arise from measles infection, impacting patient outcomes.
  • Understanding these complications is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the clinical characteristics and disease progression of neurological complications following measles.
  • To analyze the diagnostic findings and treatment responses in affected patients.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective study was conducted on 10 patients admitted with measles-related neurological complications.
  • Clinical features and neurological investigations, including CSF analysis and EEG, were assessed.
  • Patient outcomes were monitored during a follow-up period.

Main Results:

  • Seven patients presented with measles encephalitis and three with myelitis.
  • Complications typically manifested 5-14 days post-rash onset.
  • Encephalitis cases showed altered consciousness, seizures, and required ventilation in some; CT and CSF findings were often non-specific.
  • Myelitis patients experienced symmetrical paraparesis and showed complete recovery.
  • One encephalitis patient died from complications of assisted ventilation; others had residual deficits.

Conclusions:

  • Measles encephalitis is a severe, potentially fatal complication requiring intensive care.
  • Measles myelitis, while serious, demonstrated a favorable prognosis with complete recovery.
  • Early recognition and management are vital for improving outcomes in measles-related neurological conditions.

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