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Giaccari LG, Mastria D, Barbieri R, De Maglio R, Madaro F, Paiano G, Pace MC, Sansone P, Pulito G, Mascia L. Bickerstaff encephalitis in childhood: a review of 74 cases in the literature from 1951 to today. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1387505. [PMID: 38533411 PMCID: PMC10963475 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1387505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis (BBE) is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by the subacute onset of bilateral external ophthalmoplegia, ataxia, and decreased level of consciousness. BBE is part of a group of rare autoimmune diseases in children that can affect the nervous system at any level. The onset of neurological deficits is often sudden and nonspecific. The diagnosis is based on clinical findings and abnormal findings on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), electroencephalography (EEG), electromyography (EMG), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). BBE is associated with the presence of the antiganglioside antibody, anti-GQ1b and anti-GM1. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) and plasma exchange are often used as treatments for these patients. We conducted a review on clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment and outcome of reported cases of BBE. 74 cases are reported in the literature from the first cases described in 1951 to today. The prevalence is unknown while the incidence is higher in males. In 50% of cases, BBE occurs following respiratory or gastrointestinal tract infections. The most frequent initial symptoms were consciousness disturbance, headache, vomiting, diplopia, gait disturbance, dysarthria and fever. During illness course, almost all the patients developed consciousness disturbance, external ophthalmoplegia, and ataxia. Lumbar puncture showed pleocytosis or cytoalbuminological dissociation. Abnormal EEG and MRI studies revealed abnormalities in most cases. Anti-GQ1b antibodies were detected in more than half of the patients; anti-GM1 antibodies were detected in almost 40% of patients. Treatment guidelines are missing. In our analysis, steroids and IVIg were administered alone or in combination; as last option, plasmapheresis was used. BBE has a good prognosis and recovery in childhood is faster than in adulthood; 70% of patients reported no sequelae in our analysis. Future studies need to investigate pathogenesis and possible triggers, and therapeutic possibilities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Donatella Mastria
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, “Vito Fazzi” Hospital, Lecce, Italy
| | - Rosella Barbieri
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, “Vito Fazzi” Hospital, Lecce, Italy
| | - Rossella De Maglio
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, “Vito Fazzi” Hospital, Lecce, Italy
| | - Francesca Madaro
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, “Vito Fazzi” Hospital, Lecce, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Paiano
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, “Vito Fazzi” Hospital, Lecce, Italy
| | - Maria Caterina Pace
- Department of Women, Child, General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Pasquale Sansone
- Department of Women, Child, General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Pulito
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, “Vito Fazzi” Hospital, Lecce, Italy
| | - Luciana Mascia
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
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Deng S, Yin L, Lu W, Ouyang S, Yin W. Case Report: Isolated facial and trigeminal nerve palsy without ataxia in anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome secondary to Mycoplasma pneumonia. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1062567. [PMID: 36591271 PMCID: PMC9795040 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1062567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of anti-GQ1b antibodies in serum or cerebrospinal fluid is a diagnostic indicator of the Miller-Fisher variant of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), whereas anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome is rarely presented as acute bilateral pain in the cheeks and masticatory muscle fatigue without ophthalmoplegia, ataxia, or limb weakness. Here, we report a case of a female patient diagnosed with GBS characterized only by the involvement of the facial and trigeminal nerves who was positive for serum anti-GQ1b antibodies secondary to Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection. The patient was treated with macrolide antibiotics and neurotrophic drugs, and her symptoms were significantly alleviated after 1 month. This case indicates a new clinical presentation of GBS and anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome with a differential diagnosis of multiple cranial nerve damage of which neurological physicians should be aware. Positive anti-GQ1b antibodies secondary to infection were observed in this case, and antibiotic treatment resulted in a favorable prognosis. The specific underlying mechanism requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuwen Deng
- Department of Health Management, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lihong Yin
- Department of Neurology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Lu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Song Ouyang
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Changsha Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Weifan Yin
- Department of Neurology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China,*Correspondence: Weifan Yin,
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Xie J, Zhang T, Liu T. First report of Bickerstaff's brainstem encephalitis caused by Salmonella Dublin: a case report. BMC Neurol 2021; 21:199. [PMID: 33992070 PMCID: PMC8122203 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-021-02230-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Diseases caused by nontyphoid Salmonella can range from mild, to self-limiting gastroenteritis and severe invasive infection. Relatively rarely, Salmonella may cause severe encephalopathy. Case presentation We report a suspected case of Bickerstaff’s brainstem encephalitis caused by Salmonella Dublin. A young man presented with impaired consciousness, ataxia, dysarthria, limb weakness, and restricted eyeball abduction. His clinical symptoms were consistent with Bickerstaff’s brainstem encephalitis. Conclusions This is the first case report of Bickerstaff’s brainstem encephalitis caused by Salmonella Dublin in the literature. After treatment, he recovered and was discharged. Early antibiotic treatment of sepsis may control the disease and avoid serious encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangbo Xie
- Department of Neurology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Tingting Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Department of Neurology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, China.
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Cai L, Hu Z, Liao J, Hong S, Kong L, Chen L, Luo Y, Li T, Jiang L. Clinical Characterization of Anti-GQ1b Antibody Syndrome in Childhood. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:649053. [PMID: 33996691 PMCID: PMC8116501 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.649053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: To delineate the comprehensive clinical features of anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome in childhood. Methods: The clinical data of children diagnosed with anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome at two Chinese tertiary pediatric neurology centers were collected and analyzed. We also conducted a systematic literature review on anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome in children. Results: This study included 78 children with anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome, consisting of 12 previously unreported cases from the two Chinese centers. The median onset age was 10 years (range, 2-18 years). The most common phenotype was acute ophthalmoparesis (32%), followed by classic Miller Fisher syndrome (15%), and Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis (12%). External ophthalmoplegia (48%), sensory disturbance (9%), and bulbar palsy (9%) were the three most frequent onset symptom manifestations. Brain or spinal lesions on MRI and abnormal recordings by nerve conduction study were present in 18% (12/68) and 60% (27/45) of cases, respectively. There was CSF albuminocytologic dissociation in 34% of the patients (23/68). IV immunoglobulin alone or combined with steroids or plasma exchange was administered to 58% of patients (42/72). We did not find a significant correlation between early improvement up to 3 months and age onset and phenotype. All patients showed different degrees of recovery, and 81% (57/70) had complete recovery within 1 year. Conclusions: Acute ophthalmoparesis and classic Miller Fisher syndrome are the most common phenotypes of anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome in childhood. The majority of patients show good response to immunotherapy and have favorable prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianhong Cai
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders (Chongqing), International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhanqi Hu
- Department of Neurology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jianxiang Liao
- Department of Neurology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Siqi Hong
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders (Chongqing), International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Lingyu Kong
- Department of Neurology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Neurology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yetao Luo
- Department of and Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Tingsong Li
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders (Chongqing), International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Tingsong Li ; orcid.org/0000-0003-4536-3211
| | - Li Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders (Chongqing), International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
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D'Alonzo R, Mencaroni E, Di Genova L, Laino D, Principi N, Esposito S. Pathogenesis and Treatment of Neurologic Diseases Associated With Mycoplasma pneumoniae Infection. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:2751. [PMID: 30515139 PMCID: PMC6255859 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.02751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycoplasma pneumoniae is mainly recognized as a respiratory pathogen, although it is associated with the development of several extra-respiratory conditions in up to 25% of the cases. Diseases affecting the nervous system, both the peripheral (PNS) and the central nervous system (CNS), are the most severe. In some cases, particularly those that involve the CNS, M. pneumoniae-related neuropathies can lead to death or to persistent neurologic problems with a significant impact on health and a non-marginal reduction in the quality of life of the patients. However, the pathogenesis of most of the M. pneumoniae-related neuropathies remains undefined. The main aim of this paper is to discuss what is presently known regarding the pathogenesis and treatment of the most common neurologic disorders associated with M. pneumoniae infection. Unfortunately, the lack of knowledge of the true pathogenesis of most of the cases of M. pneumoniae-mediated neurological diseases explains why treatment is not precisely defined. However, antibiotic treatment with drugs that are active against M. pneumoniae and able to pass the blood-brain barrier is recommended, even though the best drug, dosage, and duration of therapy have not been established. Sporadic clinical reports seem to indicate that because immunity plays a relevant role in the severity of the condition and outcome, attempts to reduce the immune response can be useful. However, further studies are needed before the problem of the best therapy for M. pneumoniae-mediated neurological diseases can be efficiently solved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato D'Alonzo
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Mencaroni
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Lorenza Di Genova
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Daniela Laino
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | | | - Susanna Esposito
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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Pediatric Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis: a systematic review of literature and case series. J Neurol 2017; 265:141-150. [PMID: 29177548 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-017-8684-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 11/16/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize the phenotype of pediatric Bickerstaff's brainstem encephalitis (BBE) and evaluate prognostic features in the clinical course, diagnostic studies, and treatment exposures. METHODS We systematically reviewed PubMed, Web of Science, and SCOPUS databases as well as medical records at the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital to identify cases of pediatric BBE. Inclusion required all of the following criteria: age ≤ 20 years, presence of somnolence or alterations in mental status at the time of presentation or developed within 7 days of presentation, ataxia, and ophthalmoplegia. RESULTS We reviewed 682 manuscripts, identifying a total of 47 pediatric BBE cases. We also describe five previously unreported cases. The phenotype of these pediatric patients was similar to previously published literature. Sixty-eight percent of patients demonstrated positive anti-GQ1b antibody titers, yet the presence of these antibodies was not associated with longer times to recovery. Patients with neuroimaging abnormalities featured a longer median time to recovery, but this was not statistically significant (p = 0.124). Overall, patients treated with any form of immunotherapy (intravenous immunoglobulin, steroids, or plasmapheresis) demonstrated shorter median time to resolution of symptoms compared to supportive therapy, although this trend was not statistically significant (p = 0.277). Post-hoc t tests revealed a trend towards use of immunotherapy against supportive care alone (p = 0.174). CONCLUSION Our study identified clinical, radiologic, and treatment features that may hold prognostic value for children with BBE. The role of immunotherapy remains under investigation but may prove of utility with further, randomized controlled studies in this rare disease.
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Chaudhry R, Ghosh A, Chandolia A. Pathogenesis of Mycoplasma pneumoniae: An update. Indian J Med Microbiol 2016; 34:7-16. [PMID: 26776112 DOI: 10.4103/0255-0857.174112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Genus Mycoplasma, belonging to the class Mollicutes, encompasses unique lifeforms comprising of a small genome of 8,00,000 base pairs and the inability to produce a cell wall under any circumstances. Mycoplasma pneumoniae is the most common pathogenic species infecting humans. It is an atypical respiratory bacteria causing community acquired pneumonia (CAP) in children and adults of all ages. Although atypical pneumonia caused by M. pneumoniae can be managed in outpatient settings, complications affecting multiple organ systems can lead to hospitalization in vulnerable population. M. pneumoniae infection has also been associated with chronic lung disease and bronchial asthma. With the advent of molecular methods of diagnosis and genetic, immunological and ultrastructural assays that study infectious disease pathogenesis at subcellular level, newer virulence factors of M. pneumoniae have been recognized by researchers. Structure of the attachment organelle of the organism, that mediates the crucial initial step of cytadherence to respiratory tract epithelium through complex interaction between different adhesins and accessory adhesion proteins, has been decoded. Several subsequent virulence mechanisms like intracellular localization, direct cytotoxicity and activation of the inflammatory cascade through toll-like receptors (TLRs) leading to inflammatory cytokine mediated tissue injury, have also been demonstrated to play an essential role in pathogenesis. The most significant update in the knowledge of pathogenesis has been the discovery of Community-Acquired Respiratory Distress Syndrome toxin (CARDS toxin) of M. pneumoniae and its ability of adenosine diphosphate (ADP) ribosylation and inflammosome activation, thus initiating airway inflammation. Advances have also been made in terms of the different pathways behind the genesis of extrapulmonary complications. This article aims to comprehensively review the recent advances in the knowledge of pathogenesis of this organism, that had remained elusive during the era of serological diagnosis. Elucidation of virulence mechanisms of M. pneumoniae will help researchers to design effective vaccine candidates and newer therapeutic targets against this agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Chaudhry
- Department of Microbiology, AIIMS, New Delhi, India
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8
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Meyer Sauteur PM, Roodbol J, Hackenberg A, de Wit MCY, Vink C, Berger C, Jacobs E, van Rossum AMC, Jacobs BC. Severe childhood Guillain-Barré syndrome associated with Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection: a case series. J Peripher Nerv Syst 2016; 20:72-8. [PMID: 26115201 DOI: 10.1111/jns.12121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Revised: 04/28/2015] [Accepted: 06/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
We report seven children with recent Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection and severe Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) that presented to two European medical centres from 1992 to 2012. Severe GBS was defined as the occurrence of respiratory failure, central nervous system (CNS) involvement, or death. Five children had GBS, one Bickerstaff brain stem encephalitis (BBE), and one acute-onset chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (A-CIDP). The five patients with severe GBS were derived from an original cohort of 66 children with GBS. In this cohort, 17 children (26%) had a severe form of GBS and 47% of patients with M. pneumoniae infection presented with severe GBS. Of the seven patients in this case series, five were mechanically ventilated and four had CNS involvement (two were comatose). Most patients presented with non-specific clinical symptoms (nuchal rigidity and ataxia) and showed a rapidly progressive disease course (71%). Antibodies against M. pneumoniae were detected in all patients and were found to be intrathecally synthesised in two cases (GBS and BBE), which proves intrathecal infection. One patient died and only two patients recovered completely. These cases illustrate that M. pneumoniae infection in children can be followed by severe and complicated forms of GBS. Non-specific clinical features of GBS in such patients may predispose a potentially life-threatening delay in diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick M Meyer Sauteur
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, and Children's Research Center (CRC), University Children's Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Joyce Roodbol
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annette Hackenberg
- Division of Neurology, and Children's Research Center (CRC), University Children's Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marie-Claire Y de Wit
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis Vink
- Laboratory of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Erasmus University College, Erasmus University, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Christoph Berger
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, and Children's Research Center (CRC), University Children's Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Enno Jacobs
- TU Dresden, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Dresden, Germany
| | - Annemarie M C van Rossum
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bart C Jacobs
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Immunology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Antibody responses to Mycoplasma pneumoniae: role in pathogenesis and diagnosis of encephalitis? PLoS Pathog 2014; 10:e1003983. [PMID: 24945969 PMCID: PMC4055762 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1003983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
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Topcu Y, Bayram E, Karaoglu P, Yis U, Guleryuz H, Kurul SH. Coexistence of myositis, transverse myelitis, and Guillain Barré syndrome following Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in an adolescent. J Pediatr Neurosci 2013; 8:59-63. [PMID: 23772249 PMCID: PMC3680901 DOI: 10.4103/1817-1745.111428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and transverse myelitis may occur coexistently in the pediatric population. This may be explained by a shared epitope between peripheral and central nervous system myelin. Coexistent transverse myelitis, myositis, and acute motor neuropathy in childhood have not been previously described. We describe a 14-year-old female patient with transverse myelitis, myositis, and GBS following Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection. She presented with weakness and walking disability. Weakness progressed to involve all extremities and ultimately, she was unable to stand and sit. Based on the clinical findings, a presumptive diagnosis of myositis was made at an outside institution because of high serum creatine kinase level. The patient was referred to our institution for further investigation. Magnetic resonance imaging of spine revealed enhancing hyperintense lesions in the anterior cervicothoracic spinal cord. The electromyography revealed acute motor polyneuropathy. Serum M. pneumoniae IgM and IgG were positive indicating an acute infection. Repeated M. pneumoniae serology showed a significant increase in Mycoplasma IgG titer. The patient was given intravenous immunoglobulin for 2 days and clarithromycin for 2 weeks. She was able to walk without support after 2 weeks of hospitalization. This paper emphasizes the rarity of concomitant myositis, transverse myelitis, and GBS in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasemin Topcu
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Dokuz Eylul University Medical Faculty, Izmir, Turkey
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Ataxia, ophthalmoplegia, and areflexia: what would you think? Case Rep Neurol Med 2012; 2012:150813. [PMID: 22934206 PMCID: PMC3420491 DOI: 10.1155/2012/150813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2012] [Accepted: 04/28/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We present here a case of carcinomatous meningitis presenting as Miller Fisher syndrome (MFS). There are four further cases described in the literature with evidence of tumour invasion within the central nervous system (CNS) shown either in cerebrospinal fluid examination or on histology. There are further five cases described in which an association between cancer and a Miller Fisher phenotype has been shown. Some of these have identified antiganglioside antibodies in the serum and, in one case, also showed antibodies deposited within the primary tumour itself. This raises a question as to whether there is a paraneoplastic form. It would be informative when further cases present in this way to histologically examine for malignant CNS invasion, and the presence of antiganglioside antibodies in both the malignant primary and areas of nervous system thought to be affected by MFS.
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Sheng B, Ho WS, Lau KK, Lui DCY, Lam BHS, Chan EYT. Bickerstaff's brainstem encephalitis complicating Salmonella Paratyphi A infection. J Neurol Sci 2011; 302:108-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2010.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2010] [Revised: 10/30/2010] [Accepted: 12/15/2010] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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How do we identify infectious agents that trigger Guillain–Barré syndrome, Fisher syndrome and Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis? J Neurol Sci 2011; 302:1-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2010.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2010] [Accepted: 12/15/2010] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Narita M. Pathogenesis of neurologic manifestations of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection. Pediatr Neurol 2009; 41:159-66. [PMID: 19664529 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2009.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2009] [Revised: 04/09/2009] [Accepted: 04/13/2009] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Mycoplasma pneumoniae has been associated with various neurologic manifestations, but exactly how the organism can cause such a wide variety of diseases is a long-standing mystery. In this respect, although pneumonia has been considered the hallmark of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection, emerging accumulations of data have revealed that the infection can cause a number of extrapulmonary manifestations even in the absence of pneumonia. The importance of host immune response in the pathomechanism of pneumonia has been established, but the pathomechanisms of extrapulmonary manifestations remain largely unknown. For this review, extrapulmonary manifestations due to M. pneumoniae infection were classified into three categories: a direct type, in which locally induced cytokines must play a role; an indirect type, in which immune modulation such as autoimmunity must play a role; and a vascular occlusion type, in which vasculitis or thrombosis (either or both, and with or without systemic hypercoagulable state) must play a role. This classification was then applied within a literature review for neurologic manifestations. Most neurologic manifestations due to M. pneumoniae infection could be reasonably classified into and explained by one of the three types of pathomechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuo Narita
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapporo Tetsudo Hospital, N 3 E 1 Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-0033, Japan.
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15
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Popescu A, Jain S, Massier A, Gopalakrishna KV, Bambakidis P. West Nile infection presenting with ocular dysmetria, ataxia, and hyperreflexia reminiscent of Bickerstaff's encephalitis. Am J Med 2008; 121:e3-4. [PMID: 18456020 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2007.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2007] [Revised: 12/08/2007] [Accepted: 12/11/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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16
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Yamada H, Watanabe R, Hasegawa O, Matsuyama H. Clinicopathological analysis of chronic brain stem encephalitis: Comparison with neuro-Behçet's disease. Neuropathology 2007. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1789.1998.tb00134.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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17
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Casserly G, Barry T, Tourtellotte WW, Hogan EL. Absence of Mycoplasma-specific DNA sequence in brain, blood and CSF of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS): a study by PCR and real-time PCR. J Neurol Sci 2007; 253:48-52. [PMID: 17234214 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2006.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2006] [Revised: 11/09/2006] [Accepted: 11/13/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Mycoplasmas are the smallest of the known self-replicating organisms. They lack cell walls and are associated with numerous diseases in humans and animals. We are exploring the possibility that infection by Mycoplasma may induce the inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) that is MS. The presence of specific Mycoplasma species DNA was sought in brain, serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) and other neurological diseases (OND) including inflammatory disorders. The MS samples from patients with active and progressive MS, as well as in remission, a variety of other neurological disease controls, including inflammatory CNS diseases such as meningitis, cryptococcal meningitis and encephalitis and other neurological disorders such as migraine were also examined. Clinical samples were provided by the National Neurological Research Specimen Bank and the Human Brain and Spinal Fluid Resource Centre, Los Angeles. Analysis was carried out by conventional PCR using Mycoplasma-specific primers (McAuliffe et al., 2005) that target the 16S rDNA gene in Mycoplasma species. The Mycoplasma-specific primers could detect 102 Mycoplasma species. In this study, 30 samples of human brain and 57 pairs of serum and CSF and were examined. No Mycoplasma-specific nucleic acid sequence was detected, and the consistent observation of an endogenous gene, human serum albumin (HSA), as a positive control documented the adequacy of the method. Real-time PCR analysis of serum and CSF was done also targeting utilizing the Mycoplasma 16S rDNA gene, and this also demonstrated the lack of Mycoplasma in these samples. The presence of Mycoplasma at extraneural sites in MS patients is now being explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgina Casserly
- Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, National University of Ireland Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland
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18
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Abstract
Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis is a clinical syndrome of ophthalmoplegia, cerebellar ataxia, and central nervous system signs and is associated with the presence of anti-GQ1b antibodies. There is a clinical continuum between Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis and Miller Fisher syndrome. We describe the case of an 11-year-old boy with encephalopathy, external ophthalmoplegia, brainstem signs, and ataxia with raised titers of anti-GQ1b antibodies. He presented following a respiratory illness and had laboratory evidence of recent infection with Mycoplasma pneumoniae. M pneumoniae infection has been associated with both Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis and Miller Fisher syndrome. This is only the second case in the literature of Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis with raised titers of anti-GQ1b antibodies described in association with M pneumoniae infection. The patient responded to intravenous immunoglobulin administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew C Steer
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of General Medicine, Royal Children's Hospital, Flemington Road, Parkville, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia
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19
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Tsiodras S, Kelesidis I, Kelesidis T, Stamboulis E, Giamarellou H. Central nervous system manifestations of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections. J Infect 2005; 51:343-54. [PMID: 16181677 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2005.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2005] [Accepted: 07/23/2005] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection is associated with several manifestations from the central nervous system (CNS) such as encephalitis, aseptic meningitis, acute transverse myelitis, stroke, and polyradiculopathy. In the current paper epidemiologic, clinical, laboratory and treatment data on these manifestations are reviewed. The M. pneumoniae induced immune dysregulation and its contributing role in the pathogenesis of neurological insult is discussed. The recent introduction in clinical practice of newer molecular diagnostic techniques has helped in establishing a firmer association between M. pneumoniae infection and CNS disease especially encephalitis. Clinicians should be aware of the potential association between M. pneumoniae infection and several CNS manifestations. The role of various anti-microbial or immunomodulating therapies in treating such manifestations should be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Tsiodras
- 4th Academic Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Attikon University Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, 1 Rimini Street, Xaidari, 12462 Athens, Greece.
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20
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Guleria R, Nisar N, Chawla TC, Biswas NR. Mycoplasma pneumoniae and central nervous system complications: a review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 146:55-63. [PMID: 16099235 DOI: 10.1016/j.lab.2005.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2004] [Revised: 03/28/2005] [Accepted: 04/03/2005] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a common cause of community-acquired pneumonia. Little is known about the extrapulmonary manifestations of this organism. Numerous central nervous system (CNS) manifestations have been described with M. pneumoniae. CNS involvement is probably the most common site of involvement in addition to the respiratory system. Up to 7% of patients hospitalized with M. pneumoniae may have CNS symptoms. Common CNS presentations include encephalitis, aseptic meningitis, polyradiculitis, cerebellar ataxia, and myelitis. The mechanism behind these CNS manifestations remains unclear. Direct invasion, neurotoxin production, or an immune-mediated mechanism has been proposed. Newer diagnostic techniques for the direct detection of the antigen and the microorganism are proving useful for the detection of extrapulmonary disease. This review comprehensively reviews the CNS complications that have been reported with M. pneumoniae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randeep Guleria
- Department of Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, India.
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21
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Pulitanò S, Viola L, Genovese O, Chiaretti A, Piastra M, Mariotti P, Di Rocco F, Polidori G, Di Rocco C. Miller-Fisher syndrome mimicking intracranial hypertension following head trauma. Childs Nerv Syst 2005; 21:473-6. [PMID: 15830202 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-005-1144-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2004] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Miller-Fisher syndrome (MFS) is a polyneuropathy with benign outcome characterized by ophthalmoplegia, limb ataxia and tendon areflexia. Impaired consciousness level and intracranial hypertension are very rare symptoms in MFS. CASE REPORT We describe the case of a 5-year-old girl who showed intracranial hypertension, transient coma and respiratory failure after mild head injury; moreover the patient showed mild ataxia, areflexia, ophthalmoplegia and autonomic disturbances. These symptoms were suggestive of MFS. Electrophysiologic studies and laboratory tests confirmed the diagnosis and immunoglobulins and steroids were given. The child showed a progressive clinical improvement and the final outcome was good. CONCLUSION This case, initially managed as trauma injury due to the presence of suggestive signs and clinical history, maskered an atypical presentation of Miller-Fisher syndrome, a rare disorder of central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Pulitanò
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Catholic University Medical School-Hospital A. Gemelli, Largo F. Vito, 8, 00168, Rome, Italy.
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22
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Daxboeck F, Blacky A, Seidl R, Krause R, Assadian O. Diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of Mycoplasma pneumoniae childhood encephalitis: systematic review of 58 cases. J Child Neurol 2004; 19:865-71. [PMID: 15658791 DOI: 10.1177/08830738040190110401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Most of the knowledge on Mycoplasma pneumoniae encephalitis in children is based on case reports or small case series. The aim of this study was to assess the important features of the disease by a systematic review of previously published cases. Overall, 58 cases (22 female, 36 male; median age 10 years, range: 2-17 years), derived from 38 reports, were reviewed. Forty-five patients (76%) had flulike or respiratory symptoms prior to the onset of neurologic disease, and 23 patients (40%) presented with pulmonary infiltrates. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pleocytosis (mostly mononuclear cells) and elevated cerebrospinal fluid protein counts were present in 34 (59%) and 21 (36%) patients, respectively. Cranial computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) abnormalities were seen in 18 (31%) and 17 (29%) patients, respectively, whereby various different presentations were observed. Forty-four patients (76%) received antimicrobial therapy active against mycoplasmas, most frequently erythromycin (n = 29) or minocycline (n = 6). Only in one patient, cure was directly attributed to antimicrobial therapy (with chloramphenicol) by the respective authors. Thirty-three patients (57%) recovered without sequelae, 20 patients (34%) had minor to major sequelae, and 5 patients (9%) died. A high cerebrospinal fluid cell count, cerebrospinal fluid protein elevation, and higher age were associated with an unfavorable outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Daxboeck
- Division of Hospital Hygiene, Clinical Institute for Hygiene and Medical Microbiology, University of Vienna, University Hospital Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Waites KB, Talkington DF. Mycoplasma pneumoniae and its role as a human pathogen. Clin Microbiol Rev 2004; 17:697-728, table of contents. [PMID: 15489344 PMCID: PMC523564 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.17.4.697-728.2004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 854] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a unique bacterium that does not always receive the attention it merits considering the number of illnesses it causes and the degree of morbidity associated with it in both children and adults. Serious infections requiring hospitalization, while rare, occur in both adults and children and may involve multiple organ systems. The severity of disease appears to be related to the degree to which the host immune response reacts to the infection. Extrapulmonary complications involving all of the major organ systems can occur in association with M. pneumoniae infection as a result of direct invasion and/or autoimmune response. The extrapulmonary manifestations are sometimes of greater severity and clinical importance than the primary respiratory infection. Evidence for this organism's contributory role in chronic lung conditions such as asthma is accumulating. Effective management of M. pneumoniae infections can usually be achieved with macrolides, tetracyclines, or fluoroquinolones. As more is learned about the pathogenesis and immune response elicited by M. pneumoniae, improvement in methods for diagnosis and prevention of disease due to this organism may occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken B Waites
- Department of Pathology, WP 230, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 619 19th St. South, Birmingham, AL 35249, USA.
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Candler PM, Dale RC. Three cases of central nervous system complications associated with Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Pediatr Neurol 2004; 31:133-8. [PMID: 15301835 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2004.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2004] [Accepted: 02/19/2004] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
We report three new cases of acute central nervous system disease occurring shortly after Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection. The clinical phenotypes were characterized by encephalopathy (n = 2), optic neuritis (n = 1), transverse myelitis (n = 1), and seizures (n = 1). Although there was strong supportive evidence of preceding M. pneumoniae infection, cerebrospinal fluid polymerase chain reaction for M. pneumoniae was negative in all three patients. We propose that these cases resulted from a para-infectious immune-mediated process rather than parenchymal invasion by the microorganism. The two patients treated with steroids improved rapidly, and all three patients have made a full recovery. We review the literature regarding M. pneumoniae central nervous system complications and discuss the proposed pathologic mechanisms; para-infectious immune-mediated disease and parenchymal invasion of the central nervous system. Systematic investigation to discriminate between these two processes will be essential to select appropriate antibiotic and immunomodulatory therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul M Candler
- Department of Neuroinflammation, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Lee JY, Park KC, Lee IH, Park CI, Lee MS, Lee SS. Bickerstaff???s Brain Stem Encephalitis after a Motor Vehicle Crash. THE JOURNAL OF TRAUMA: INJURY, INFECTION, AND CRITICAL CARE 2004; 56:179-81. [PMID: 14749586 DOI: 10.1097/01.ta.0000046262.01635.60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Yong Lee
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University, Wonju College of Medicine, Gwang-do, Korea
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Odaka M, Yuki N, Yamada M, Koga M, Takemi T, Hirata K, Kuwabara S. Bickerstaff's brainstem encephalitis: clinical features of 62 cases and a subgroup associated with Guillain-Barré syndrome. Brain 2003; 126:2279-90. [PMID: 12847079 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awg233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 247] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Bickerstaff reported eight patients who, in addition to acute ophthalmoplegia and ataxia, showed drowsiness, extensor plantar responses or hemisensory loss. This condition has been named Bickerstaff's brainstem encephalitis (BBE). One patient had gross flaccid weakness in the four limbs. Presumably because of the rarity of this disorder, there has been no reported study on a large number of patients with BBE. To clarify its clinical features, we reviewed detailed clinical profiles and laboratory findings for 62 cases of BBE diagnosed by the strict criteria of progressive, relatively symmetrical external ophthalmoplegia and ataxia by 4 weeks, and disturbance of consciousness or hyperreflexia. Ninety-two per cent of the patients involved had had an antecedent illness. Besides ophthalmoplegia and ataxia, disturbance of consciousness was frequent (74%), and facial diplegia (45%), Babinski's sign (40%) and pupillary abnormality and bulbar palsy (34%) were present. Almost all the patients had a monophasic remitting course and generally a good outcome. Serum anti-GQ1b IgG antibody was positive in 66%, and MRI showed brain abnormality in 30% of the patients. Another striking feature was the association with flaccid symmetrical tetraparesis, seen in 60% of the patients. An autopsy study of a BBE patient clearly showed the presence of definite inflammatory changes in the brainstem: there was perivascular lymphocytic infiltration with oedema and glial nodules. Electrodiagnostic study results suggested peripheral motor axonal degeneration. Limb weakness in the BBE cases studied was considered the result of overlap with the axonal subtype of Guillain-Barré syndrome. These findings confirm that BBE constitutes a clinical entity and provide additional clinical and laboratory features of BBE. A considerable number of BBE patients have associated axonal Guillain-Barré syndrome, indicative that the two disorders are closely related and form a continuous spectrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaaki Odaka
- Department of Neurology, Dokkyo University School of Medicine, Shimotsuga, Tochigi, Japan
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Chataway SJ, Larner AJ, Kapoor R. Anti-GQ1b antibody status, magnetic resonance imaging, and the nosology of Bickerstaff's brainstem encephalitis. Eur J Neurol 2001; 8:355-7. [PMID: 11422433 DOI: 10.1046/j.1468-1331.2001.00239.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S J Chataway
- National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London, UK
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28
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Sakoulas G. Brainstem and striatal encephalitis complicating Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia: possible benefit of intravenous immunoglobulin. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2001; 20:543-5. [PMID: 11368117 DOI: 10.1097/00006454-200105000-00016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Encephalitides of the brainstem and the striatum associated with Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection are believed to be mediated by an autoimmune process triggered by the organism, a toxin or direct invasion by the organism itself. Inability to identify M. pneumoniae from cerebrospinal fluid by culture or polymerase chain reaction suggested a possible immunologic process. A trial of intravenous immunoglobulin in a critically ill patient with encephalitis that developed in parallel to M. pneumoniae pneumonia was associated with neurologic improvement within 48 h of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Sakoulas
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
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29
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES To clarify the nosological relation among Miller Fisher syndrome (MFS), Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) with ophthalmoplegia, Bickerstaff's brain stem encephalitis (BBE), and acute ophthalmoparesis without ataxia. Serum samples from patients with each condition often have anti-GQ1b IgG antibody. METHODS Information on antecedent illness, initial symptoms, neurological signs during the illness, and CSF findings were reviewed in 194 patients with anti-GQ1b IgG. It was determined whether overlapping MFS and GBS (MFS/GBS), as well as overlapping BBE and GBS (BBE/GBS), is explained by the combined action of anti-GQ1b IgG and anti-GM1 or anti-GD1a IgG, serological markers of GBS. RESULTS Based on the diagnostic criteria, all the patients with acute ophthalmoparesis, MFS, MFS/GBS, BBE/GBS, and BBE had external ophthalmoplegia; all the patients with MFS, MFS/GBS, or GBS had hyporeflexia or areflexia; and all those with MFS and BBE showed ataxia. Tendon reflexes were decreased or absent in 91% of those with BBE/GBS, 67% of those with BBE, and 53% of those with acute ophthalmoparesis. Ataxia was present in 68% of the patients with MFS/GBS and 45% of those with BBE/GBS. Antecedent illness caused by upper respiratory tract infection had occurred in 60% to 80% of these patients, and CSF albuminocytological dissociation in 25% to 75%. Anti-GM1 or anti-GD1a IgG was present in 50% of those with GBS, 35% of those with MFS/GBS, 27% of those with BBE/GBS, 16% of those with MFS, and 8% of those with BBE. CONCLUSIONS These findings together with the common autoantibody (anti-GQ1b IgG) suggest that a common autoimmune mechanism functions in the pathogenesis of these illnesses. In a larger study, it was confirmed clinically that MFS, GBS, BBE, and acute ophthalmoparesis are closely related, forming a continuous range. This is supported by the immunological findings. The term "anti-GQ1b IgG antibody syndrome" is not intended to be used as a clinical diagnosis, but recognition of this syndrome is useful for understanding the aetiological relation among the various illnesses and for introducing the established treatments of GBS for use with other conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Odaka
- Department of Neurology, Dokkyo University School of Medicine, Kitakobayashi 880, Mibu, Shimotsuga, Tochigi 321-0293, Japan
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Abstract
Over the past decade, remarkable progress has been made in our understanding of the pathogenesis of Miller Fisher syndrome (MFS), a clinical variant of Guillain Barré syndrome (GBS). MFS comprises the clinical triad of ataxia, areflexia and ophthalmoplegia. It is associated with acute-phase IgG antibodies to GQ1b and GT1a gangliosides in over 90% of cases which are highly disease specific. Like GBS, MFS is a post-infectious syndrome following diverse infections, but particular attention has been paid to its association with Campylobacter jejuni enteritis. Serostrains of C. jejuni isolated from infected patients bear ganglioside-like epitopes in their lipopolysaccharide core oligosaccharides, which elicit humoral immune responses exhibiting molecular mimicry with GQ1b/GT1a gangliosides. These antibodies are believed to be the principal cause of the syndrome and physiological studies aimed at proving this have focused on the motor-nerve terminal as a potential site of pathogenic action. This review describes these findings and formulates a pathogenesis model based on our current state of knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- H J Willison
- University Department of Neurology, Institute of Neurological Sciences, Southern General Hospital, Glasgow, Scotland, UK.
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31
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Abstract
Recent neurophysiological and pathological studies have led to a reclassification of the diseases that underlie Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) into acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (AIDP), acute motor and sensory axonal neuropathy (AMSAN) and acute motor axonal neuropathy (AMAN). The Fisher syndrome of ophthalmoplegia, ataxia and areflexia is the most striking of several related conditions. Significant antecedent events include Campylobacter jejuni (4-66%), cytomegalovirus (5-15%), Epstein-Barr virus (2-10%), and Mycoplasma pneumoniae (1-5%) infections. These infections are not uniquely associated with any clinical subtype but severe axonal degeneration is more common following C. jejuni and severe sensory impairment following cytomegalovirus. Strong evidence supports an important role for antibodies to gangliosides in pathogenesis. In particular antibodies to ganglioside GM1 are present in 14-50% of patients with GBS, and are more common in cases with severe axonal degeneration associated with any subtype. Antibodies to ganglioside GQ1b are very closely associated with Fisher syndrome, its formes frustes and related syndromes. Ganglioside-like epitopes exist in the bacterial wall of C. jejuni. Infection by this and other organisms triggers an antibody response in patients with GBS but not in those with uncomplicated enteritis. The development of GBS is likely to be a consequence of special properties of the infecting organism, since some strains such as Penner 0:19 and 0:41 are particularly associated with GBS but not with enteritis. It is also likely to be a consequence of the immunogenetic background of the patient since few patients develop GBS after infection even with one of these strains. Attempts to match the subtypes of GBS to the fine specificity of anti-ganglioside antibodies and to functional effects in experimental models continue but have not yet fully explained the pathogenesis. T cells are also involved in the pathogenesis of most or perhaps all forms of GBS. T cell responses to any of three myelin proteins, P2, PO and PMP22, are sufficient to induce experimental autoimmune neuritis. Activated T cells are present in the circulation in the acute stage, up-regulate matrix metalloproteinases, cross the blood-nerve barrier and encounter their cognate antigens. Identification of the specificity of these T cell responses is still at a preliminary stage. The invasion of intact myelin sheaths by activated macrophages is difficult to explain according to a purely T cell mediated mechanism. The different patterns of GBS are probably due to the diverse interplay between antibodies and T cells of differing specificities.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Hughes
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Guy's, King's and St. Thomas' School of Medicine, Guy's Hospital, London, UK.
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32
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Abstract
In many neurologic diseases, activated leukocytes enter the nervous system and initiate a chronic inflammatory process. Understanding how the cellular and humoral responses are associated with pathogenesis is essential for the formulation of a unifying model of central and peripheral nervous system inflammation. Based on such a model, immunotherapeutic strategies and protocols can be designed.
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