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Induction and Clinical Scoring of Chronic-Relapsing Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Published on: July 4, 2007
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Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis developed quickly after COVID-19 infection
Daiki Mori1, Takahiro Yamada1, Hiroshi Fukuma1
1Rinku General Medical Center Senshu Trauma and Critical Care Center Osaka Japan.
Acute Medicine & Surgery
|July 3, 2025
Summary
Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis (BBE), an autoimmune neurological condition, can rapidly follow COVID-19 infection. Prompt recognition and treatment of BBE symptoms like impaired consciousness and ataxia after COVID-19 are crucial.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Autoimmune Disorders
Background:
- Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis (BBE) is a rare autoimmune condition affecting the central nervous system.
- Key features include impaired consciousness, ophthalmoplegia, and ataxia.
- The association between BBE and preceding infections, including viral ones, is recognized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report two cases of BBE occurring after COVID-19 infection.
- To highlight the temporal relationship between COVID-19 and the onset of BBE symptoms.
- To increase awareness of BBE as a potential neurological complication of COVID-19.
Main Methods:
- Case report of two patients diagnosed with BBE following confirmed COVID-19.
- Clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, and treatment outcomes were documented.
- Review of the temporal association between COVID-19 diagnosis and neurological symptom onset.
Main Results:
- Two patients presented with BBE symptoms including prolonged loss of consciousness, ophthalmoplegia, and ataxia/myoclonus within a week of COVID-19 diagnosis.
- Both patients showed improvement in consciousness following treatment with steroids, immunoglobulin, and/or plasmapheresis.
- The findings suggest a rapid onset of BBE post-COVID-19 infection.
Conclusions:
- BBE can manifest acutely following COVID-19.
- Central nervous system symptoms appearing rapidly after COVID-19 should prompt consideration of BBE.
- Early diagnosis and management are essential for improving patient outcomes.
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