Clinically Mild Encephalopathy with a Reversible Splenial Lesion Caused by Influenza B Virus in an Unvaccinated Child
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Updated: Nov 18, 2025
A Murine Model of Dengue Virus-induced Acute Viral Encephalitis-like Disease
Published on: April 28, 2019
Silvia Ventresca1,2, Claudia Guiducci1, Sara Tagliani1,2
1Department of Pediatrics, S. Maria delle Croci Hospital, 48121 Ravenna, Italy.
Abstract:
Reversible lesions involved in the splenium of corpus callosum (RESLES) are a rare clinic-radiological condition, whose pathogenesis could be related to infectious events (such as in mild encephalopathy with reversible splenial lesion-MERS), epilepsy or metabolic/electrolyte disorders. MERS is characterized by an acute mild encephalopathy associated with lesions in the splenium of corpus callosum on brain magnetic resonance imaging. Viral infections are commonly associated with this condition and type A influenza is the most common cause. The prognosis is generally favorable with spontaneous resolution of clinical and radiological abnormalities. We report a case report of type B influenza MERS in an 8-year-old unvaccinated girl with complete clinical and radiological recovery.
Insights
Mild encephalopathy with reversible splenial lesion (MERS) can be caused by influenza. This case highlights a favorable outcome in an 8-year-old girl with Type B influenza MERS, showing complete recovery.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Reversible lesions in the splenium of the corpus callosum (RESLES) are rare, linked to infections, epilepsy, or metabolic issues.
- Mild encephalopathy with reversible splenial lesion (MERS) presents as acute encephalopathy with characteristic corpus callosum lesions on MRI.
- Viral infections, particularly influenza A, are common triggers for MERS.
Observation:
- This report details a case of MERS in an 8-year-old unvaccinated female.
- The patient experienced an acute illness associated with Type B influenza infection.
- Brain MRI revealed reversible splenial lesions consistent with MERS.
Findings:
- The patient presented with symptoms of mild encephalopathy.
- Diagnosis of MERS was confirmed via MRI findings.
- Complete clinical and radiological resolution was observed following the influenza B infection.
Implications:
- This case expands the understanding of MERS etiology, demonstrating Type B influenza as a potential cause.
- It underscores the generally favorable prognosis of MERS, even with less common influenza types.
- Highlights the importance of considering influenza in pediatric encephalopathy cases with characteristic MRI findings.
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