Rasmussen’s Syndrome and Hemispherectomy Support Network

The Rasmussen’s Syndrome and Hemispherectomy Support Network is a national non-profit organization dedicated to providing information and support to individuals affected by Rasmussen’s syndrome (Rasmussen’s encephalitis) and hemispherectomy. Rasmussen’s syndrome is a rare central nervous system disorder characterized by chronic active inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) and epileptic seizures of varying degrees of severity. Progressive symptoms including paralysis (usually of one side of the body) and mental retardation may also occur. Although the exact cause of this disorder is not known, it is thought to result from an unidentified viral infection. Hemispherectomy is a form of surgery commonly used in the treatment of Rasmussen’s syndrome and other brain disorders. Founded in 1994 and comprised of 200 members, RSHSN publishes a periodic newsletter and disseminates reprints of medical journal articles concerning Rasmussen’s syndrome and its treatments. RSHSN also maintains a support network that provides encouragement and information to individuals affected by Rasmussen’s syndrome and their families.