User:Mr. Ibrahem/Rasmussen's encephalitis

Rasmussen's encephalitis is a brain disease that results in seizures, weakness of one side of the body, and intellectual dysfunction. The seizures are often focal, frequent, and severe. It generally gets worse over 8 to 12 months; after which it may stabilize. People are often left with chronic problems, which may include dementia or brain atrophy.

The cause is unclear; though may be autoimmune or triggered by infection. The underlying mechanism involves long-term inflammation of the brain. Typically just one side of the brain is affected. Diagnosis is based on symptoms, EEG, and MRI.

While anti-epileptic medication may be used, they are often not effective. Other medications that may help include corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin, or tacrolimus. Surgery in the form of a cerebral hemispherectomy may stop the seizures. Other options may include transcranial stimulation and vagus nerve stimulation.

Rasmussen's encephalitis is rare; occurring in about 1 in 2.5 million children per year. Onset is generally in children between the age of 2 and 10; though it may occur in other ages. It was first described in 1958 by Theodore Rasmussen.