Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis in an Internationally Adopted Child
Author Information
Author(s): Daniel J. Bonthius, Nicholas Stanek, Charles Grose
Primary Institution: University of Iowa
Hypothesis
What are the implications of undiagnosed infections in internationally adopted children?
Conclusion
The case illustrates that subacute sclerosing panencephalitis can occur in internationally adopted children who may have contracted measles prior to adoption.
Supporting Evidence
- The boy was healthy until he began showing symptoms at age 13.
- SSPE is a rare but serious complication of measles.
- The patient had elevated measles antibodies in his CSF.
- Measles complications are a known risk in international adoptions.
Takeaway
A boy adopted from Thailand got very sick years later because he likely had measles when he was little, which caused a serious brain problem.
Methodology
The case report details the clinical progression, MRI findings, EEG results, and CSF analysis of the patient.
Limitations
The study is based on a single case report, limiting generalizability.
Participant Demographics
The participant was a 13-year-old boy of Thai descent.
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