Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis

• 20 Mar 2025

Why in News? 

Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) remains a serious health concern due to low coverage of measles vaccination in Uttar Pradesh . 

Key Points 

• About SSPE: 
  • It is a progressive and fatal brain disorder associated with  measles (rubella) infection. 
  • It can develop many years after infection , even if a person has fully recovered from measles. 
  • This disease is mainly found in children and adolescents and is more commonly seen in men than women . 
  • Although cases of SSPE have been reported worldwide, it is considered a rare disease in Western countries . 
• Reason: 
  • Usually, the measles virus does not affect the brain . 
  • But SSPE can develop because of an abnormal immune response or certain forms of the virus . 
  • In this condition, inflammation occurs in the brain , which can persist for many years . 
  • The abnormal immune response to the measles virus can cause serious complications and death . 
• Symptoms: 
  • Early symptoms of SSPE may include declined school performance , forgetfulness, anger issues, distractibility , insomnia , and hallucinations . 
    • Sudden jerks in the hands, head or body muscles may also be experienced. 
    • As the disease progresses, seizures and abnormal, uncontrolled muscle movements  may occur. 
  • In the next stage of the disease , the muscles start to become stiff .  
    • Swallowing food may become difficult . Additionally, in some cases the patient's vision may also be affected . 
  • In the final stage , the body temperature may rise and blood pressure and pulse may become abnormal . 
• Treatment: 
  • There is no specific treatment available for SSPE. The disease has  a high mortality rate . 
  • Antiviral medications and immune system-strengthening medications may be given to control symptoms . 

 Measles 

• About: 
  • The measles virus is a ribonucleic acid virus belonging to the Morbillivirus genus. 
  • Measles is a highly contagious disease, and an infected person often transmits the virus to more than 90% of their unprotected close contacts.  
  • The virus first infects the respiratory tract, then spreads throughout the body. Measles is a human disease and does not occur in animals. 
  • Measles is completely preventable through a two-dose vaccine and has been officially eliminated in many countries with advanced health care systems . 
• Treatment: 
  • There is no specific antiviral treatment for the measles virus . 
  • Serious complications from food poisoning can be avoided through medical care that ensures good nutrition, adequate fluid intake, and treatment of dehydration.