Atypical subacute sclerosing panencephalitis with short onset latency

Kumar Saurabh1, Ratan Gupta, Shashi Khare

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India.

Indian Pediatrics
|March 12, 2013
PubMed

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.

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