Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis. Current status.

Abstract

Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a neurodegenerative disease of childhood that is due to a persistent measles infection. Owing to a nationwide immunization program in the United States, the incidence has decreased considerable, coexistent with the decline in natural measles infection. The disease, now fully understood, still represents a great international problem. Clinical presentation, etiology, pathogenesis, prevention, and treatment are updated in this article.