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subacute sclerosing panencephalitis

pathology
Also known as: SSPE

Quick Summary

Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a rare, fatal neurological disease that affects children and young adults. It is caused by a persistent infection of the brain with a mutated measles virus.12

The pathology of SSPE involves progressive deterioration of both motor and mental functions. Symptoms typically begin with behavioral changes, followed by myoclonic seizures, and eventually lead to coma. There is no known treatment for SSPE, and it is invariably fatal.12

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