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Updated: Sep 30, 2025
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Induction and Clinical Scoring of Chronic-Relapsing Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Published on: July 4, 2007
18.3K
[Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis].
1Klinik für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Neuroradiologie, Uniklinikum des Saarlandes, Kirrbergerstraße 1, 66421, Homburg/Saar, Deutschland. m.wolska-krawczyk@uks.eu.
Der Radiologe
|March 15, 2022
Summary
Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is a rare demyelinating disease in children, often following infections or vaccinations. Early diagnosis and differentiation from conditions like multiple sclerosis are crucial for effective treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
- Immunology
Background:
- Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is a rare demyelinating disease predominantly affecting children.
- ADEM is classified as a myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)-associated disease.
- It often follows febrile infections, including SARS-CoV-2, or vaccinations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the incidence, clinical course, and radiological features of ADEM.
- To discuss new developments and treatment strategies for ADEM.
- To highlight the importance of differentiating ADEM from other demyelinating conditions.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive analysis and review of existing literature on ADEM.
- Inclusion of notable case studies.
- Consideration of current clinical guidelines.
Main Results:
- Initial symptoms include fever, headache, encephalopathy (drowsiness, confusion), and meningism.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) reveals diffuse, tumefactive lesions, often asymmetric, with contrast enhancement and restricted diffusion.
- Spinal cord involvement (myelitis transversa) with an H-pattern is observed in some cases.
Conclusions:
- ADEM typically follows a monophasic course, resolving within weeks to months.
- A relapsing form of ADEM occurs in 1-20% of cases.
- Prompt differentiation from diseases like multiple sclerosis is essential for appropriate management.
