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Updated: Jul 16, 2026
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In Vivo Imaging Systems (IVIS) Detection of a Neuro-Invasive Encephalitic Virus
Published on: December 2, 2012
Encephalitis among Cree children in northern Quebec
D N Black1, G V Watters, E Andermann
1Department of Neurogenetics, Montreal Neurological Institute, Quebec.
Annals of Neurology
|October 1, 1988
Summary
A rare neurological disease in Cree Indian children presents with severe intellectual disability and immune system issues. Genetic factors and potential viral infections are suspected causes in this Quebec community.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Genetics
- Immunology
Background:
- A novel neurological disorder has been identified in Cree Indian children in northern Quebec.
- The disease presents with severe intellectual disability, cerebral atrophy, white matter abnormalities, calcifications, and systemic immunological dysfunction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize a newly observed neurological disease in a pediatric population.
- To investigate the potential genetic and infectious etiologies of this rare condition.
Main Methods:
- Clinical case reporting and familial incidence analysis.
- Assessment of parental consanguinity in affected families.
- Neurological and immunological evaluation of affected children.
Main Results:
- Eleven cases of the disease were identified across five families.
- Significant parental consanguinity was observed, suggesting a genetic component.
- The clinical presentation includes severe mental retardation and specific brain abnormalities.
Conclusions:
- The observed familial clustering and consanguinity strongly indicate a genetic predisposition.
- An unusual viral infection in genetically susceptible individuals is hypothesized as the cause.
- Further research is needed to identify the specific genetic and infectious agents involved.
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