DISEASES
description
Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM), or acute demyelinating encephalomyelitis, is a rare autoimmune disease marked by a sudden, widespread attack of inflammation in the brain and spinal cord. As well as causing the brain and spinal cord to become inflamed, ADEM also attacks the nerves of the central nervous system and damages their myelin insulation, which, as a result, destroys the brain’s white matter. ADEM is often triggered by a viral infection or (very rarely) specific non-routine vaccinations. ADEM’s symptoms resemble the symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS). Therefore, the disease is included into the classification of the multiple sclerosis borderline diseases.
MitogenDx offers several diagnostic tests to aid in the diagnosis of ADEM. The Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD) Test is a useful test for ADEM.
Symptoms
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Confusion
- Weakness
- Ataxia (unsteady walk)
- Sensory changes, including numbness or tingling
- Optic neuritis (trouble with vision)
- Seizures