Acute Demyelinating Encephalomyelitis Following Measles Infection Due to Vaccine Failure: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Local outbreaks of measles infection are primarily mediated by international travel of persons from endemic areas, with subsequent spread of the virus via undervaccinated populations. Recent resurgences of measles in communities where vaccination rates are non-ideal secondary to philosophical objections require the emergency physician to more routinely consider the diagnosis. In cases of measles complicated by acute encephalitis or encephalopathy, the diagnosis can be especially difficult to make due to lack of a reliable primary historian. Case report: Here we present a case of altered mental status and new-onset bilateral lower extremity weakness in a fully vaccinated young woman diagnosed with measles infection caused by acute disseminated encephalomyelitis in the setting of vaccine failure. Conclusion: Despite a documented history of immunization, acute measles infection and its uncommon sequelae are possible. Recognizing vaccine failure and appropriately isolating patients are of paramount importance.