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A Murine Model of Dengue Virus-induced Acute Viral Encephalitis-like Disease
Published on: April 28, 2019
Acute necrotizing encephalopathy during novel influenza A (H1N1) virus infection
Paolo Mariotti1, Raffaele Iorio, Giovanni Frisullo
1Department of Medical and Surgical Pediatric Sciences and Developmental Neurosciences, Unit of Child Neuropsychiatry, Catholic University, Largo Gemelli 8, Rome, Italy.
Abstract:
A novel swine-origin influenza A (H1N1) virus was recently identified in Mexico. Some cases of infection with neurological complications have been reported to date. We report a case of acute necrotizing encephalopathy associated with the novel H1N1 virus in a 2-year-old European girl who suddenly developed fever, seizures, and altered mental status. Brain and spinal cord magnetic resonance imaging showed bilateral symmetrical lesions of the insulae, thalami, geniculate bodies, and pons tegmentum suggestive of an acute necrotizing encephalopathy. An involvement of meninges and spinal cord was observed configuring an acute necrotizing meningoencephalomyelitis.
Insights
A novel swine-origin influenza A (H1N1) virus caused acute necrotizing encephalopathy in a child. This rare neurological complication highlights the H1N1 virus
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Virology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- A novel swine-origin influenza A (H1N1) virus emerged recently.
- Neurological complications associated with H1N1 virus infections have been reported.
Observation:
- A 2-year-old European girl presented with fever, seizures, and altered mental status.
- Magnetic resonance imaging revealed bilateral symmetrical lesions in the brain and spinal cord.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with acute necrotizing encephalopathy.
- Imaging findings were suggestive of acute necrotizing meningoencephalomyelitis, involving the meninges and spinal cord.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for severe neurological manifestations of the novel H1N1 influenza A virus.
- Further research is needed to understand the pathogenesis of H1N1-associated encephalopathy.
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