Pattern and Outcome of Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM)

Abstract

Background: Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is an immune disease marked by widespread of inflammation in the brain and spinal cord. ADEM typically damages myelin, causing destruction of white matter. It often occurs following a viral infection or vaccination. Its symptoms are similar to multiple sclerosis (MS) and are considered part of the multiple sclerosis borderline diseases. Patients and Methods: This is an observational prospective study done in Bab Al-Shariah University Hospital in period between 31th of December 2017 to 30th of December 2018 on children from birth to 18 years old who were having definite ADEM by neuroradiological study of the brain (MRI brain) presented to the Neuropediatric outpatients clinic or inpatients of Pediatric Department during the period of the study. Those with history suggestive of definite perinatal asphyxia or with other congenital malformation of neurological system were not involved in our study. Results: We found that the most common clinical features of ADEM in our community are fever, disturbed conscious level (DCL), motor system weakness and convulsions, and the most valuable tool in diagnosis is brain MRI. These findings are very important in the diagnosis, management and counseling of patients with ADEM. Conclusion: ADEM is an area of active research especially in the field of imaging where there is a rapid development. In future we may have better diagnostic and therapeutic options for ADEM.