Abstract
Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is an immune-mediated inflammatory disorder of the brain and spinal cord caused by post- and parainfectious demyelination, principally affecting the white matter. Classically presumed to be monophasic, this disorder has evolved to be linked to multiple relapsing inflammatory conditions of the central nervous system. Most cases of ADEM are linked to a recent bacterial or viral infection, with a large majority of cases in children, being linked to the presence of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibodies. The pathologic causes of ADEM are heterogeneous and involve several mechanisms, which include molecular mimicry, epitope spreading, and activation of inflammatory cascades. This chapter will explore the wide variety of immunologic pathology observed in ADEM and link the molecular biology of this condition to the clinical, radiographic, and therapeutic/prognostic features.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
