Hope in the face of subacute sclerosing panencephalitis: a case report of remarkable improvement with inosine pranobex

Nimra Shafique; Syed Muhammad Essa; Amanullah Kakar

doi:10.56310/pjns.v20i01.282

Nimra Shafique Bolan University of Medical & Health Sciences, Quetta
Syed Muhammad Essa Bolan Medical University Hospital, Quetta
Amanullah Kakar Bolan University of Medical & Health Sciences, Quetta

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56310/pjns.v20i01.282

Keywords: Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, Measles, Inosine pranobex

Abstract

Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE) is a rare and relentless neurodegenerative disorder linked to persistent measles virus infection. We present a case of a 16-year-old female with gradually worsening rigidity, cognitive decline, and myoclonic seizures, minimally responsive to valproic acid. A history of measles infection at age two years emerged. Positive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) IgG and IgM anti-measles antibodies, along with an elevated CSF/serum antibody index, confirmed SSPE. Treatment with inosine pranobex and clonazepam yielded significant motor and seizure control improvements. This case highlights the importance of early SSPE diagnosis and tailored interventions, shedding light on clinical progression and therapeutic responses.