Pediatric Rasmussen's Syndrome
Rasmussen's syndrome causes inflammation on one side of the brain and seizures.
What is Pediatric Rasmussen's Syndrome?
Rasmussen's Syndrome, a type of encephalitis, is a very rare form of brain malformation that may happen anytime during childhood. While the cause is unknown, the disorder causes inflammation in one half of a child's brain. The inflammation affects the nerve cells in the brain and causes seizures. These seizures occur very frequently, often many times a day. Seizures usually start between 14 months and 14 years of age. Weakness and other neurological problems often begin 1 to 3 years after the seizures start.
What are the signs and symptoms of Pediatric Rasmussen's Syndrome?
Seizures are usually the first symptom that a child has Rasmussen's syndrome. The symptoms a child experiences with this condition depend on which side of their brain is affected.
Possible symptoms include:
Associated learning and behavioral difficulties
Difficulty with thinking and memory
Language problems (aphasia)
Mild weakness of an arm or leg
Weakness (usually beginning a couple of years after the onset of the syndrome)
How is Pediatric Rasmussen's Syndrome diagnosed?
To diagnose Rasmussen’s Syndrome, your physician will do a detailed physical exam of your child, which will include an electroencephalogram (EEG). An EEG is performed by placing electrodes on the scalp and recording the electrical activity of the brain.
What are the causes of Pediatric Rasmussen's Syndrome?
There is no known cause for Rasmussen's Syndrome.
How is Pediatric Rasmussen's Syndrome treated?
The seizures associated with Rasmussen's Syndrome can be difficult to control with medication. Some children benefit from immunomodulatory therapy and others from surgery to disconnect or remove the section of brain causing the seizures.
Pediatric Rasmussen's Syndrome Doctors and Providers
