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The Janus-faced nature of Rasmussen's encephalitis

Craig Press1, Adam Wallace1, Kevin E Chapman1

  • 1Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO.

Seminars in Pediatric Neurology
|August 24, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Rasmussen encephalitis (RE) is a rare inflammatory epilepsy. This study highlights two pediatric cases, suggesting acute onset may correlate with dual pathology in Rasmussen encephalitis.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Epileptology

Background:

  • Rasmussen encephalitis (RE) is a severe, unilateral, progressive inflammatory epilepsy.
  • It is characterized by hemiparesis, cognitive decline, and hemispheric atrophy.
  • RE is typically medically refractory, posing significant treatment challenges.

Observation:

  • Presents two pediatric cases of Rasmussen encephalitis with similar age and presentation.
  • Highlights the dual nature and potential subtypes of RE.
  • Observes a possible correlation between acute onset and dual pathology in RE.

Findings:

  • Reviews the two described types of RE: Type 1 (acute onset) and Type 2 (gradual onset).
  • Suggests younger patients may present with Type 1 and be more prone to dual pathology.
  • The presented cases support the hypothesis linking acute RE onset to dual pathology.

Implications:

  • Understanding RE subtypes and their pathological correlates is crucial for diagnosis.
  • Early identification of potential dual pathology may guide treatment strategies.
  • Discusses current and emerging experimental treatments for refractory Rasmussen encephalitis.

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