Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis, Pediatric
Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a rare brain condition that develops months or years after a measles infection. It usually starts before age 20 and gets worse over time. SSPE causes brain swelling (encephalitis) and a loss of the protective covering that surrounds nerves (demyelination).
It leads to a gradual loss of mental and physical abilities.
CAUSES
This condition is caused by the measles virus.
RISK FACTORS
This condition is more likely to develop in:
People who did not get the measles vaccine.
Children.
Males.
People who had measles before age 2.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms start slowly and gradually get worse. Symptoms usually appear in this order:
Memory
Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a rare brain condition that develops months or years after a measles infection. It usually starts before age 20 and gets worse over time. SSPE causes brain swelling (encephalitis) and a loss of the protective covering that surrounds nerves (demyelination).
It leads to a gradual loss of mental and physical abilities.
CAUSES
This condition is caused by the measles virus.
RISK FACTORS
This condition is more likely to develop in:
People who did not get the measles vaccine.
Children.
Males.
People who had measles before age 2.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms start slowly and gradually get worse. Symptoms usually appear in this order:
Memory