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[Brainstem edema in patients with acute encephalopathy and encephalitis]
1Department of Pediatrics, Sapporo City General Hospital.
No to Hattatsu = Brain and Development
|October 22, 1998
Summary
Brainstem edema on CT scans was observed in eleven patients with acute encephalopathy, Reye syndrome, or encephalitis. Rapid onset of brainstem edema and prolonged convulsions were associated with fatal outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Brainstem edema is a critical finding on cranial computed tomography (CT).
- Acute encephalopathy, Reye syndrome, and encephalitis can present with brainstem involvement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the clinical and laboratory findings in patients with brainstem edema.
- To identify factors associated with mortality in these patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of eleven patients with brainstem edema on cranial CT.
- Comparison of clinical and laboratory data between survivors and non-survivors.
Main Results:
- Seven out of eleven patients died.
- Rapidly developing brainstem edema and convulsions lasting over 30 minutes were observed in fatal cases.
- Significant differences in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), platelet count, and bicarbonate (HCO3(-)) levels were noted between survivors and non-survivors.
Conclusions:
- Brainstem edema on CT is a significant indicator in pediatric neurological emergencies.
- Early detection and monitoring of brainstem edema, alongside clinical signs like prolonged convulsions, are crucial for prognosis.