Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis after mumps infection in a vaccinated patient

Raquel Gonçalves1, João Gomes2, André Martins1

  • 1Infectious Diseases' Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Portugal.

Idcases
|December 18, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Mumps, a viral illness, can lead to neurological issues like acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) even after vaccination. This case highlights ADEM as a rare post-infectious complication of mumps in a vaccinated individual.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Neurology
  • Virology

Background:

  • Mumps is a viral infection caused by a paramyxovirus, known to affect various organs, including the central nervous system.
  • Neurological complications, such as acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM), can occur in the post-infectious phase of mumps.
  • Vaccination is a primary preventive measure against mumps, but breakthrough infections and associated complications are possible.

Observation:

  • A case study of a previously vaccinated young man is presented.
  • The individual contracted ADEM following a mumps infection.
  • This highlights a potential neurological sequela despite vaccination.

Findings:

  • The study documents a rare instance of ADEM post-mumps.
  • It suggests that even vaccinated individuals can be susceptible to certain complications.
  • The case underscores the importance of recognizing mumps as a potential trigger for ADEM.

Implications:

  • This case contributes to understanding the spectrum of mumps complications.
  • It may inform vaccination strategies and post-infectious monitoring.
  • Further research into vaccine efficacy against neurological complications is warranted.