AN INFANT WITH A RARE ACQUIRED CNS DISORDER

Abstract

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) or post-infectious encephalomyelitis is a rare neurological condition particularly affecting young children. We report a case of 1-year old boy with high grade fever, altered mental status, lower limb weakness and seizures. One week before these symptoms the child had complaints of loose stools and vomiting. His initial reports showed leukopenia, raised acute phase reactants and CSF showed elevated proteins. Clinical evaluation and MRI imaging confirmed the diagnosis of ADEM. Prompt
treatment with high dose corticosteroids led to gradual improvement in neurological symptoms. The child was discharged with a tapering course of oral corticosteroids and followed up after 1 week, then after 2 weeks with improved neurological deficit and advised for further close follow-up. This case emphasizes the importance of early recognition, aggressive treatment, and long-term
monitoring in managing ADEM in children