Fast Facts
- ANE can be both genetic and non genetic. Genetic cases are susceptible to recurrence.
- It is a severe & rapidly progressive acute disease.
- ANE is typically triggered by virus most commonly influenza. Other viruses include HSV6, varicella, rubella, measles, rotavirus, enterovirus, coxsackie 9 and now Covid19. ANE on the rare occasion can be triggered by bacteria.
- It particularly affects previously well children.
- Typical viral symptoms (fever cough etc) rapidly progress to neurological signs including seizure & coma.
- Bi Lateral thalamic lesions are a distinctive feature on MRI
- Outcomes can include severe cognitive dysfunction, cerebral palsy, vision and speech issues.
- Mortality is high and almost all survivors are left with Acquired Brain Injury
- The exact pathogenesis is unknown.
- It is a highly under recognised Rare disease that is often misdiagnosed.
ANE International 