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Multiple sclerosis in children: report of two cases
1Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, R.O.C.
Changgeng Yi Xue Za Zhi
|September 1, 1995
Summary
This study highlights two pediatric cases of multiple sclerosis (MS) presenting with neurological symptoms. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) proved crucial for early diagnosis, distinguishing it from less sensitive CT scans.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Neurology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a central nervous system white matter disease with a relapsing-remitting course, typically beginning around age 30.
- Pediatric MS is rare, presenting diagnostic challenges due to varied symptoms and the need for lesion dissemination in time and space.
Observation:
- Two female patients experienced recurrent childhood episodes of headaches, seizures, hemiparesis, and optic neuritis.
- Computed tomography (CT) scans during relapses were largely unremarkable, with one showing subtle white matter hypodensity.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed characteristic white matter lesions in both patients.
Findings:
- Case 1: Multiple focal T2-weighted hyperintensities in the white matter.
- Case 2: Increased T2-weighted signal intensity in the right paraventricular region.
- MRI demonstrated clear evidence of white matter lesions, supporting the diagnosis of MS.
Implications:
- MRI is the neuroimaging modality of choice for diagnosing pediatric multiple sclerosis, enabling earlier detection.
- Advanced MRI techniques facilitate accurate assessment of disease extent and monitoring of clinical progression in MS.
- This case report underscores the importance of MRI in pediatric neurological disorders mimicking other conditions.