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Published on: July 24, 2016
Clinical Characteristics of H1N1 Influenza A-Associated Mild Encephalopathy with Reversible Splenial Lesion: 4
Xu-Fang Li1, Bin Ai1, Jia-Wei Ye1
1Department of Infectious Disease, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou, 510000, China.
Objective:
Mild encephalopathy with reversible splenial lesion (MERS) is associated with a variety of infections and anti-epileptic drug withdrawal. Here we report the clinical characteristics of H1N1 influenza A-associated MERS based on our experience of four pediatric cases.
Methods:
A detailed retrospective analysis of four patients with H1N1 influenza A-associated MERS was performed at Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center.
Results:
All patients exhibited mild influenza-like illness and seizures. Three patients presented with a new-onset seizure with fever after 5 years of age. 75% patients had altered mental status. For all four patients, influenza A (H1N1) viral RNA was detected in throat swab specimens at least twice. Brain magnetic resonance images revealed similar ovoid lesions in the corpus callosum, mainly in the splenium and for one patient in the splenium and genu of the corpus callosum. Only one patient had an abnormal electroencephalogram tracing. Cells and protein in the cerebrospinal fluid were normal in all patients. All patients received oseltamivir and one patient received intravenous immunoglobulin. As a result, all patients fully recovered after 2 months and showed no neurologic sequelae at discharge.
Conclusion:
This case series provides insight towards clinical features of H1N1 influenza A-associated MERS.
Insights
Mild encephalopathy with reversible splenial lesion (MERS) in children is linked to H1N1 influenza A. This study details four pediatric cases, showing full recovery with no long-term neurological issues.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Mild encephalopathy with reversible splenial lesion (MERS) is a recognized neurological condition.
- MERS is often associated with infections and withdrawal from anti-epileptic drugs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical characteristics of MERS associated with H1N1 influenza A.
- To report on four pediatric cases of H1N1 influenza A-associated MERS.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of four pediatric patients diagnosed with H1N1 influenza A-associated MERS.
- Clinical data, viral RNA detection, and neuroimaging findings were reviewed.
Main Results:
- All patients presented with mild influenza-like symptoms and seizures.
- Magnetic resonance imaging revealed characteristic splenial lesions in the corpus callosum.
- All patients recovered fully within two months after treatment with oseltamivir.
Conclusions:
- H1N1 influenza A is a potential cause of MERS in children.
- This case series highlights the clinical features and favorable prognosis of H1N1 influenza A-associated MERS.
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