INFORMATION ON ACUTE DISSEMINATED ENCEPHALOMYELITIS

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is defined as the intense attack of inflammation in the brain and spinal cord that damages myelin (the protective covering of nerve fibers). It often follows viral infection, or less often, vaccination for measles, mumps, or rubella.

CAUSES OF ACUTE DISSEMINATED ENCEPHALOMYELITIS

The factors which lead to the development of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis:-

1. Viral infection.
2. Vaccination for measles, mumps or rubella.

SYMPTOMS OF ACUTE DISSEMINATED ENCEPHALOMYELITIS

1. Fever.
2. Fatigue.
3. Headache.
4. Nausea and vomiting.
5. Seizures.
6. Coma.
7. Improper vision in one or both eyes.
8. Paralysis.
9. Difficulty in muscle movements.

DIAGNOSIS OF ACUTE DISSEMINATED ENCEPHALOMYELITIS

In order to confirm symptoms of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis following clinical test should be performed:-
1. MRI.
2. Lumbar puncture or spinal tap.
3. Family’s medical history.
4. Physical examination.

TREATMENT OF ACUTE DISSEMINATED ENCEPHALOMYELITIS

Treatment for acute disseminated encephalomyelitis is employed for reducing inflammation in the brain by using anti-inflammatory drugs. Most of the subjects respond to intravenous corticosteroids like methylprednisolone. When corticosteroid does not respond then, intravenous immunoglobulin therapy is another option to shown improvement.