Rehabilitation of Susac Syndrome: A Case Report

A 43-yr-old man presented with headaches, forgetfulness, and personality changes. Based on imaging, there was concern for acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. He improved with steroids and immunoglobulin. When symptoms recurred, magnetic resonance imaging showed new scattered gray and white matter lesions, many within the corpus callosum. Angiogram showed multiple branch retinal artery occlusions, pathognomonic for Susac syndrome. He was treated with steroids, intravenous immunoglobulin, and cytoxan and was sent to acute rehabilitation. Functional Independence Measure score improved from 65 to 108. Follow-up at 6 and 10 mos showed continued improvement, with full return to his premorbid roles at home and work. The adjunct of acute rehabilitation to traditional treatment may have promoted faster recovery than expected based on previous reports.