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Published on: April 28, 2019
Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis with bilateral thalamic necrosis
Efthimios Dardiotis1, Persa Kountra, Eftychia Kapsalaki
1Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece.
Insights
Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis can cause severe neurological deficits and bilateral thalamic necrosis, indicating a poor prognosis. This rare complication requires consideration in patients with persistent symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Immunology
- Pathology
Background:
- Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease affecting the central nervous system.
- Bilateral thalamic lesions are an uncommon finding in pediatric ADEM, typically resolving with benign outcomes.
Observation:
- This case report details a pediatric patient with ADEM presenting with severe neurological deficits.
- The patient exhibited bilateral thalamic necrosis, a rare and severe manifestation.
Findings:
- Thalamic necrosis in ADEM is associated with significant neurological impairment.
- The presence of necrosis serves as a critical indicator of a poor prognosis in ADEM.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider thalamic necrosis in ADEM cases with persistent severe deficits.
- Recognizing thalamic necrosis is crucial for accurate prognostic assessment and patient management.
Abstract:
Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis is a monophasic inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system involving the white matter, and to a lesser extent, the gray matter. Bilateral thalamic lesions have been reported in 12% of pediatric patients with acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. In most cases, there is a benign clinical course and complete resolution of the lesions. Here, we describe a case in which acute disseminated encephalomyelitis is associated with severe neurological deficits and bilateral thalamic necrosis. Necrosis should be considered in cases of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis with persistent severe neurological deficits. Its presence is a poor prognostic indicator.
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