Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis following Influenza A pneumonia

Abstract

Key Clinical MessageAcute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is an autoimmune demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system and can present following influenza A infections as multifocal neurological deficits. ADEM remains a challenging diagnosis, and high clinical suspicious coupled with laboratory investigations and neuroimaging is required to exclude other primary and secondary demyelinating disorders.

The association of SARS-CoV-2 infection and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis without prominent clinical pulmonary symptoms

“…Patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection syndrome (COVID-19) characteristically present with fever and respiratory symptoms; however, evidence of multi-organ dysfunction is reported [1].Central nervous system (CNS) involvement, especially in the form of encephalopathy, is reported in some patients [2], and it has been reported that the virus can be detected in the brain or cerebrospinal fluid. Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM), is usually a para or post-infectious syndrome characteristically multifocal and monophasic immune-mediated central nervous system disorder [3]. It usually occurs in early childhood after infection with the influenza virus [3].…”

“…Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM), is usually a para or post-infectious syndrome characteristically multifocal and monophasic immune-mediated central nervous system disorder [3]. It usually occurs in early childhood after infection with the influenza virus [3]. Recently, the first case of acute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis associated with COVID-19 has been reported [4].…”