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Immunosuppressive measles encephalitis
R E Chen1, D A Ramsay, L L deVeber
1Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Victoria Hospital, London, Ontario, Canada.
Pediatric Neurology
|June 1, 1994
Summary
This case study describes immunosuppressive measles (rubeola) encephalitis in a boy with leukemia. Measles encephalitis can cause severe neurological symptoms, even in immunocompromised patients in remission.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Immunology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Measles (rubeola) is a highly contagious viral illness.
- Immunosuppression, often due to leukemia treatment, can alter disease presentation.
- Measles encephalitis is a rare but serious complication of measles infection.
Observation:
- A 12-year-old boy in remission from acute lymphoblastic leukemia developed measles encephalitis.
- The patient presented with focal seizures, progressing to epilepsia partialis continua and obtundation.
- Neurological examination revealed focal cortical abnormalities.
Findings:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed focal cortical abnormalities.
- Microscopic examination identified neuronal loss, gliosis, and Wallerian degeneration.
- Paramyxovirus inclusions were found in oligodendrocytes and neurons, confirming measles infection.
Implications:
- This case highlights the risk of severe measles encephalitis in immunocompromised children, even during remission.
- Early recognition and diagnosis are crucial for managing measles encephalitis in susceptible populations.
- Understanding the neuropathological features is vital for developing targeted treatments.