Acute Hemorrhagic Leukoencephalitis (AHLE) is a rare, severe neurological disorder characterized by inflammation and bleeding in the brain and spinal cord, leading to significant damage and impairment of the central nervous system.
Typically, AHLE follows an infection, most commonly a respiratory or viral illness, and is considered an autoimmune reaction triggered by the immune system's response to the infection. The body's immune cells, intended to protect against the infection, mistakenly attack and damage the myelin sheath, the protective covering of the nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. This immune reaction causes inflammation, increased permeability of blood vessels, and bleeding, leading to the destruction of brain tissue.
The symptoms of AHLE usually develop rapidly and progress rapidly over hours to days. These symptoms include high fever, headache, seizures, confusion, drowsiness, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, muscle weakness, and in severe cases, coma. Neurological deterioration is generally rapid and can be life-threatening.
AHLE is a medical emergency and requires immediate intervention. Diagnosis is based on clinical manifestations, neuroimaging, and exclusion of other conditions. Treatment typically involves managing symptoms, controlling inflammation with medications such as corticosteroids, and supportive care to minimize complications. Unfortunately, the prognosis of AHLE is generally poor, with a high mortality rate and a significant risk of long-term neurological disabilities for survivors.
