Use of MRI in the Diagnosis and Prognosis of Acute Necrotizing Encephalopathy in a Chinese Teenager: A Case Report

Rationale: Acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE) is a rapidly progressing disease associated with frequent neurologic sequelae and has poor prognosis. Currently, the diagnosis and treatment of ANE rely on neuroradiologic findings and offering supportive care. Here, we report the successful treatment of a teenager diagnosed with ANE using combination of high-dose methylprednisolone and oseltamivir.

Patient Concerns: The patient, a 15-year-old female, presented with impaired consciousness and seizures secondary to acute upper respiratory tract infection. A series of brain magnetic resonance images (MRIs) were obtained toward establishing a possible diagnosis.

Diagnosis: Based on the history of presenting illness and subsequent brain MRI scans, the patient was diagnosed to be suffering from ANE.

Interventions: Following the diagnosis, the patient was placed on therapy comprising of high-dose methylprednisolone and oseltamivir.

Outcomes: After treatment with methylprednisolone and oseltamivir for 15 days, the patient recovered nearly completely from ANE as confirmed by subsequent brain MRI scans. No complications or other emerging clinical symptoms were noted for the duration of follow-up that lasted 6 months.

Lessons: Contrary to common reports, ANE can occur beyond pediatric populations and its treatment should not be restricted to supportive care. Our case suggests that the use of high-dose corticosteroids and oseltamivir leads to promising prognosis.