Atypical subacute sclerosing panencephalitis with short onset latency
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Published on: July 4, 2007
Kumar Saurabh1, Ratan Gupta, Shashi Khare
1Department of Pediatrics, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India.
Insights
Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a rare complication of measles in infants, presenting with seizures and altered sensorium. Early diagnosis via EEG and CSF analysis is crucial for management.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a rare, progressive neurological disorder.
- Measles infection is a known precursor to SSPE, particularly in unvaccinated populations.
- Infantile encephalopathy requires a broad differential diagnosis.
Observation:
- An 11-month-old infant presented with focal seizures, myoclonic jerks, and altered sensorium.
- The infant had a history of measles infection at eight months of age.
- Clinical presentation suggested an acute encephalopathy.
Findings:
- Electroencephalogram (EEG) revealed characteristic changes indicative of SSPE.
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis confirmed the presence of anti-measles antibodies.
- Diagnosis of SSPE was established based on clinical, EEG, and serological findings.
Implications:
- SSPE diagnosis requires consideration in infants with acute encephalopathy and a history of measles.
- Early identification of SSPE is vital for timely intervention and management.
- Understanding SSPE's link to measles emphasizes the importance of vaccination programs.
Abstract:
An 11-month-old boy presented with focal seizures, myoclonic jerks and altered sensorium of one month duration, with a history of measles at eight months of age. A diagnosis of Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) was made on the basis of typical EEG changes and presence of anti-measles antibody in cerebrospinal fluid. A differential diagnosis of SSPE should be considered in all forms of acute encephalopathy in infants for early diagnosis and management.
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