Rasmussen’s Encephalitis: A Review

Ratna Jyothi K; K. N. Harika S; Akhila T; Sarvagnya R

doi:10.37022/jiaps.v11i3.973

K. Ratna Jyothi CMR College of Pharmacy, Kandlakoya, Medchal, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
S. K. N. Harika CMR College of Pharmacy, Kandlakoya, Medchal, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
T. Akhila CMR College of Pharmacy, Kandlakoya, Medchal, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
R. Sarvagnya CMR College of Pharmacy, Kandlakoya, Medchal, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.

DOI https://doi.org/10.37022/jiaps.v11i3.973

Abstract

Rasmussen’s encephalitis is a very rare condition that involves long term worsening inflammation (encephalitis) of one hemisphere of the brain. It is a chronic inflammatory brain disorder identified by progressive cerebral atrophy, seizures, and gradual neurological decline. This condition primarily affects children and is believed to result from an immune-mediated process involving cytotoxic T-lymphocytes and microglialactivation leading to neuronal injury. Diagnosis is established through a combination of clinical evaluation, electroencephalography, and neuroimaging findings. Current treatment strategies focus on seizure control and slowing disease progression through antiepileptic drugs, immunomodulatory therapies, and surgical procedures such as hemispherectomy. In spite of advances in understanding its immunological mechanisms, Rasmussen’s encephalitis remains a challenging disorder with limited therapeutic options. This review outline current knowledge regarding the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnostic approaches, and management strategies associated with Rasmussen’s encephalitis.

Keywords: Rasmussen’s encephalitis, autoimmune encephalitis, epilepsy, hemispherectomy, neuroinflammation

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