What causes subacute encephalitis?

Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by inflammation of the brain (encephalitis). The disease may develop due to reactivation of the measles virus or an inappropriate immune response to the measles virus.

What is sclerosing panencephalitis?

Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a progressive, disabling, and deadly brain disorder related to measles (rubeola) infection. The disease develops many years after the measles infection.

What is pathophysiology of measles?

The Pathophysiology of Measles The measles virus is transmitted by air as droplets infect the respiratory system; it is manifested in a widespread skin rash. The measles virus is transmitted via the respiratory route and replicates in the nasopharynx and regional lymph nodes within 2 to 3 days after exposure.

What is subacute disease?

Subacute: Rather recent onset or somewhat rapid change. In contrast, acute indicates very sudden onset or rapid change, and chronic indicates indefinite duration or virtually no change.

Does measles affect the brain?

About 1 child out of every 1,000 who get measles will develop encephalitis (swelling of the brain) that can lead to convulsions and can leave the child deaf or with intellectual disability.

How common is subacute sclerosing panencephalitis?

The condition primarily affects children, teens, and young adults. It has been estimated that about 2 in 10,000 people who get measles will eventually develop SSPE.

Can measles vaccine cause subacute sclerosing panencephalitis?

It affects children, it is uncommon after 18 years of age, and the disease has a more aggressive course in adults. The disease is very rare in developed countries, but is still common in developing and poor countries. Measles vaccine is not associated with an increased risk of SSPE.