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Measles inclusion-body encephalitis in a child with treated acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Abstract:
A child with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, being treated in the UKALL II Trial, had while in remission an attack of measles and made a normal recovery. Four months later she developed an acute encephalopathy and died within two weeks. The brain showed mild inflammatory features and widespread inclusion bodies in neurones and glial cells. Immunofluorescence proved an infection with measles virus. Similar cases have been called SSPE; reasons are given for preferring the term "measles inclusion-body encephalitis".
Insights
A child with acute lymphoblastic leukemia experienced measles and later developed a fatal brain inflammation. This measles virus infection in the brain, termed measles inclusion-body encephalitis, occurred months after initial recovery.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Virology
- Pediatric Oncology
Background:
- Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) treatment protocols aim for remission.
- Measles infection can have varied neurological sequelae.
- Immune status in leukemia patients may influence disease presentation.
Observation:
- A child in remission from ALL developed measles and recovered normally.
- Four months post-measles, the child presented with acute encephalopathy.
- Neuropathological examination revealed inflammation and viral inclusion bodies in the brain.
Findings:
- Immunofluorescence confirmed measles virus infection as the cause of encephalopathy.
- The condition is characterized by widespread inclusion bodies in neurons and glial cells.
- The study advocates for the term 'measles inclusion-body encephalitis' over SSPE for these cases.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare but severe neurological complication of measles virus infection.
- Understanding measles virus neurotropism is crucial, especially in immunocompromised populations.
- Accurate terminology aids in recognizing and managing this distinct neuropathological entity.