Abstract

SUBACUTE SCLEROSING PANENCEPHALITIS: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

M. Navya Sai*, Dr. K. Tirumala Naik1 V. Nandini, P. Supriya, M. Prathyusha bai, V. Dharani

ABSTRACT

SSPE, or subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, is a rare and progressive neurological condition linked to ongoing brain measles virus infection. This abstract provides a comprehensive overview of SSPE, including its etiology, epidemiology, clinical features, diagnostic criteria, pathogenesis, and management strategies. SSPE primarily affects individuals previously infected with the measles virus, with symptoms often emerging years or decades after the initial infection. The persistence of a defective measles virus in the brain leads to chronic inflammation, neuronal destruction, and progressive neurological decline. Clinical manifestations of SSPE encompass a wide range of symptoms, including behavioral changes, cognitive decline, myoclonic jerks, seizures, and motor dysfunction. Diagnosis is challenging and relies on clinical symptoms, electroencephalography (EEG) findings, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and elevated measles antibody titers. Although no definitive cure exists for SSPE, treatment options focus on symptom management and slowing disease progression. Antiviral drugs, such as ribavirin, have limited efficacy, while immunomodulatory therapies, including interferon-alpha and intraventricular methotrexate, show promise in select cases. Prevention of SSPE is crucial and emphasizes widespread measles vaccination to minimize the risk of infection and subsequent SSPE development. In conclusion, this comprehensive review provides a comprehensive understanding of SSPE, its epidemiology, etiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment strategies. Further research is needed to enhance our knowledge of SSPE, develop more effective therapies, and strengthen preventive measures, ultimately reducing the impact of this devastating neurological disorder.

Keywords: Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, Neurological disorder, Measles virus, Persistent infection, Vaccination, Antiviral drugs.