Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis as a re-emerging condition due to low vaccination coverage: a case-series

Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a chronic progressive disease affecting the central nervous system (CNS) because of persistent measles virus (MeV) infection. The disease presents with a range of symptoms, starting with gradual cognitive and motor decline, progressing to coma, vegetative state, and typically resulting in death within 3-4 years of clinical onset. The incidence of SSPE is inversely related to vaccination coverage and its pathogenesis remains poorly understood. The primary risk factor is infection by the wild type of measles virus, particularly in individuals who may be predisposed to infection due to a lack of herd immunity or immunosuppressed states. Furthermore, the risk of developing SSPE increases with the younger age at which a person contracts measles.

We provide a description of the disease, characterizing its clinical course, diagnostic work-up and treatment options. We will also present a series of cases observed at the Santobono-Pausilipon Children's Hospital, in Naples, Italy, highlighting both typical and atypical presentations, with a particular emphasis on the pharmacological and neurosurgical treatments for the condition.

The objective of this study is to raise awareness about the increasing prevalence of conditions following the SARS-Cov2 pandemic, with an emphasis on the importance of vaccination adherence as the only effective prevention method for SSPE.