Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM)

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is an acute, monophasic, demyelinating inflammatory disorder of the brain and spinal cord, typically following a viral infection or vaccination. It is more common in children. Clinical: multifocal neurologic deficits (motor/sensory/cerebellar/visual) plus encephalopathy (confusion/altered consciousness/seizures). MRI shows multifocal white-matter lesions. Treatment: high-dose IV corticosteroids; immunoglobulin/plasmapheresis in severe cases.

Common Symptoms

Multifocal neurologic deficits; encephalopathy/confusion; seizures; after infection/vaccination; childhood; MRI white-matter lesions

Causes and Pathogenesis

Post-infectious/post-vaccination autoimmune demyelination of central white matter, monophasic.

Treatment

High-dose IV corticosteroids; IVIG/plasmapheresis in severe cases; supportive care

Preventive Measures

Recognize post-infectious neuro symptoms; early treatment.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Neurology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.