Atypical Adult-Onset Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis

Abstract

Although subacute sclerosing panencephalitis is almost exclusively a childhood disease, it can occur in adults as well. We present an atypical case of adult-onset subacute sclerosing panencephalitis. The disease was characterized by prolonged insidious course followed by accelerated and aggressive phase, atypical EEG findings, and absence of myoclonic jerks. The diagnostic and treatment-related pitfalls are discussed.

Keywords

• Adult onset
• MRZ (measles, rubella, varicella-zoster) reaction
• Multiple sclerosis
• Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis