Evaluation of cases with subacute sclerosing panencephalitis

Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate clinical and radiological findings of cases with subacute sclerosing panencephalitis that are followed in Gaziantep Children's Hospital. Material and Method: Clinical onset findings, clinical progress and radiologic findings were evaluated. A total of 33 regularly followed cases were introduced to the study. Results: Mean age, disease onset age, age of measles infection and latent period were 10.53 +/- 2.37 years, 7.93 +/- 1.84 years, 13.06 +/- 8.85 months and 6.96 +/- 1.99 years, respectively. Seventy eight percent of the cases (n=26) were males and 22% of the cases were females. Fifty two percent of the cases (n=18) were in stage 3a. Ninety seven percent of the cases (n=32) had history of measles infection and 42% of the cases (n=14) were not vaccinated. The most presenting symptom was head drop and 60% of the cases (n=14) underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging. The most common radiologic abnormality was periventricular and subcortical white matter changes which were detected in T2 imaging series. Fifty two percent of the cases (n=17) had ongoing seizures and the most common seizure type was myoclonic seizures. Eighty eight percent of the cases (n=29) were not going to physical rehabilitation and 67% of the cases (n=22) had contractures. Conclusions: Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis is still an important health problem in developing countries. Families should be encouraged for physical rehabilitation programme to prevent contractures and improve quality of life. (Turk Arch Ped 2010; 45: 49-52)