Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis

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Disease Overview

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is a neurological condition characterized by a brief but intense attack of inflammation in the brain and spinal cord. This may lead to damage of the layer of insulation around the nerves (myelin) within affected areas.[1146] ADEM often follows viral infection, or less often, vaccinations for measles, mumps, or rubella (MMR).[12053] Symptoms usually appear rapidly, beginning with fever, fatigue, headache, nausea and vomiting.[1146] Treatment for ADEM is targeted at suppressing inflammation in the brain using anti-inflammatory drugs.[1147] Most people begin to recover within days, with total or near-total recovery within a few months. Some people may have lifelong neurological impairments, and very rarely, severe cases can be fatal.[1146]


Synonyms

  • ADE
  • ADEM

For more information, visit GARD.

National Organization for Rare Disorders