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Published on: October 6, 2023
Acute necrotizing encephalopathy in 3 brothers
Elysa J Marco1, Jane E Anderson, Derek E Neilson
1University of California, 350 Parnassus Ave, Box 0137, San Francisco, CA 94143-0137, USA. marcoe@neuropeds.ucsf.edu
Abstract:
Acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE) is a devastating and rapidly progressive neurologic disorder that occurs in healthy children after common viral infections. Typically, ANE is sporadic and does not recur. However, familial (ANE1) and recurrent cases have been reported and were recently linked to mutations in RANBP2 (RAN-binding protein 2). We report here a multiply affected kindred with recurrent familial ANE. These affected male siblings (a set of twins and their older brother) all presented with prodromal fever and upper respiratory tract infection that progressed within 72 hours to seizures, coma, and ultimately death, a course that is typical of ANE. It should be noted that 1 brother was treated with early aggressive management, including corticosteroids, and he survived for an additional 5 years. This represents the second reported case of familial ANE in the United States and the only case of male siblings with consanguineous parents. We hope that early recognition and growing awareness can lead to more effective treatment and better outcomes in the future.
Insights
Familial acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE) linked to RANBP2 mutations can recur in male siblings. Early aggressive treatment may improve outcomes for this rare, devastating neurologic disorder.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Genetics
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE) is a severe neurologic disorder typically affecting children post-viral infection.
- While usually sporadic, familial cases (ANE1) and recurrences have been associated with RANBP2 gene mutations.
Observation:
- This study details a kindred with recurrent familial ANE affecting multiple male siblings, including twins.
- All affected siblings presented with typical ANE symptoms following viral prodromes, progressing to seizures, coma, and death.
Findings:
- The affected siblings, offspring of consanguineous parents, exhibited a consistent, fatal ANE course.
- One sibling, treated aggressively with corticosteroids, survived for five years, suggesting potential therapeutic benefit.
Implications:
- This case highlights the genetic basis and recurrent nature of ANE in specific families.
- Increased awareness and early intervention may improve the prognosis for familial ANE, a condition with high mortality.
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