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A case of unilateral hemispheric encephalitis
1Department of Neurology, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, #1 Hoegi-dong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 130-702, Korea.
Summary
A rare case of unilateral hemisphere encephalitis presented with unusual symptoms. This benign condition responded well to steroid therapy, leading to full recovery without lasting neurological damage.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neuroimmunology
Background:
- Encephalitis, particularly unilateral forms, can present with diverse clinical courses.
- Distinguishing between various encephalitis etiologies is crucial for appropriate management.
- Rasmussen syndrome is a rare, progressive neurological disorder affecting one hemisphere.
Observation:
- A 44-year-old man presented with headache and language abnormalities.
- Cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed lymphocytosis and elevated protein levels.
- Brain MRI demonstrated abnormalities confined to a single cerebral hemisphere.
Findings:
- Initial symptoms improved spontaneously within a week without antiviral treatment.
- Delayed onset of language disturbance and right hemiparesis occurred after the first week.
- The patient showed significant recovery following corticosteroid therapy, with no neurological sequelae.
Implications:
- This case highlights an unusual, benign, and steroid-responsive form of unilateral encephalitis.
- The distinct clinical course differentiates it from established syndromes like Rasmussen encephalitis.
- Early recognition and appropriate treatment, such as steroids, can lead to favorable outcomes in such cases.
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