Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis [Article in English]

Abstract

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is a monophasic autoimmune postinfectious demyelinating disease that predominantly affects children. It appears to occur in a seasonal distribution (winter and early spring) and is characterized by the acute onset of diffuse neurological signs and symptoms. The diagnosis is often made by exclusion, and it is strongly suggested by preceding infection or immunization coupled by evidence of multifocal lesions of demyelization on neuroimaging. High dose corticosteroid therapy is the treatment of choice. Prognosis in pediatric patients is generally favorable.