INFORMATION ON POSTINFECTIOUS ENCEPHALOMYELITIS

Postinfectious Encephalomyelitis 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 POSTINFECTIOUS ENCEPHALOMYELITIS

The factors which lead to the development of Postinfectious Encephalomyelitis:-

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

SYMPTOMS OF POSTINFECTIOUS 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 POSTINFECTIOUS ENCEPHALOMYELITIS

In order to confirm symptoms of Postinfectious 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 POSTINFECTIOUS ENCEPHALOMYELITIS

Treatment for Postinfectious 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.