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Progressive rubella panencephalitis: causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment
Medical expert of the article
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
What causes progressive rubella panencephalitis?
Progressive rubella panencephalitis is caused by the rubella virus.
Pathogenesis of progressive rubella panencephalitis
The pathogenesis of progressive rubella panencephalitis has not been studied.
Symptoms of progressive rubella panencephalitis
Progressive rubella panencephalitis develops gradually. The following symptoms are characteristic of progressive rubella panencephalitis: cerebellar ataxia, spastic syndrome, epileptic seizures, progressive dementia. In the cerebrospinal fluid, low pleocytosis, increased protein content, mainly y-globulins. The course is progressive. The prognosis is unfavorable.
Diagnosis of progressive rubella panencephalitis
Diagnosis of progressive rubella panencephalitis consists of detection of high titers of IgM antibodies against the rubella virus using the methods of RTGA, RIF, and RSC in serum and cerebrospinal fluid.
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Differential diagnosis of progressive rubella panencephalitis
Progressive rubella panencephalitis is differentiated from SSPE and other slow infections.
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Treatment of progressive rubella panencephalitis
Treatment of progressive rubella panencephalitis is symptomatic.
How to prevent progressive rubella panencephalitis?
Progressive rubella panencephalitis can be prevented by vaccinating girls aged 8–9 years against rubella.