The Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey is a team of board-certified neurologists and neurosurgeons who provide expert care for a variety of pediatric neurological conditions, including Rasmussen's encephalitis. Our team uses advanced diagnostic tools and innovative treatment techniques to ensure the best outcomes for your child.
The Physical Impact
Rasmussen's encephalitis is a rare, chronic, and progressive neurological disorder that typically affects one hemisphere of the brain. It is characterized by inflammation in the brain, which can lead to severe and intractable seizures, neurological deficits, and cognitive impairments. The exact cause of the condition is not well understood, though it is believed to involve an autoimmune response. Early intervention is crucial to manage symptoms and slow progression, as the disease can significantly impact motor function, speech, and cognition.
How Common Is This Condition?
Rasmussen's encephalitis is extremely rare, with only a few hundred cases documented worldwide. It predominantly affects children, with symptoms often appearing between the ages of 1 and 14. The condition is more common in males than females and tends to progress rapidly once symptoms appear. While it is a rare disorder, early diagnosis and aggressive management are key to improving the quality of life and limiting the disease's effects on a child's development.
Risk Factors:
- Autoimmune disorders or predispositions
- Genetic factors, though no clear hereditary pattern has been identified
- Viral infections or immune system malfunctions may trigger or contribute to the disease
- No known environmental risk factors have been consistently linked
Signs and Symptoms
Children with Rasmussen's encephalitis experience a range of neurological symptoms that progressively worsen over time. These can include:
- Frequent, often uncontrollable seizures (including focal and generalized seizures)
- Hemiparesis (weakness or paralysis on one side of the body)
- Speech and language difficulties
- Cognitive decline and developmental regression
- Motor abnormalities (e.g., difficulty with coordination and movement)
- Behavioral changes, including irritability or personality shifts
- Visual disturbances or field cuts
- Abnormal brain imaging showing asymmetrical brain inflammation
How We Diagnose
At the Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey, diagnosing Rasmussen's encephalitis begins with a comprehensive evaluation of your child's medical history, symptoms, and neurological function. Our diagnostic steps often include:
- EEG (Electroencephalogram): Detects abnormal brain activity, particularly in the affected hemisphere.
- MRI or CT Scans: Helps identify brain atrophy, inflammation, or lesions typical of Rasmussen's encephalitis.
- Neuropsychological Evaluations: Assesses cognitive and behavioral function to understand the impact of the disease on your child's development.
- Blood Tests and CSF Analysis: Used to rule out other conditions and may help identify autoimmune markers associated with the disease.
- Clinical History: Detailed review of the onset of seizures and any relevant infections or autoimmune responses that could be connected to the disease.
Through this thorough diagnostic approach, we can confirm a diagnosis of Rasmussen's encephalitis and develop a personalized treatment plan to manage symptoms and slow disease progression.
Treatment Options
Managing Rasmussen's encephalitis requires a multidisciplinary approach to control seizures, reduce inflammation, and address cognitive and neurological impairments. Treatment may include:
- Anti-Seizure Medications: These are typically the first line of defense to control seizures, but may not be fully effective due to the progressive nature of the disease.
- Immunotherapy: Immunosuppressive treatments like corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), or plasmapheresis may help reduce brain inflammation.
- Surgical Intervention: In severe cases, hemispherectomy (surgical removal or disconnection of the affected hemisphere of the brain) may be considered to control seizures and improve motor function.
- Rehabilitation Therapy: Physical, occupational, and speech therapies are crucial in helping your child regain lost skills and improve their quality of life.
- Supportive Care: A team of healthcare professionals, including neurologists, therapists, and psychologists, will work together to provide comprehensive care.
At the Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey, we take a collaborative approach to ensure the best possible outcomes for your child, balancing cutting-edge medical treatments with compassionate, holistic care.
Our Commitment to Your Child's Health
“I am neurosurgeon living in New Jersey, board-certified by both the American Board of Neurosurgery (ABNS) and Pediatric Neurosurgery (ABPNS). I specialize in the surgical treatment of complex epilepsy and serve as the Director of the Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey, Chief of Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery at Sanzari Children's Hospital, and Chief of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Children's Hospital of NJ, where I provide exceptional care for children with complex neurological conditions. Your child's health and well-being are our top priorities.”
