Efficacy of plasma exchange and methylprednisolone pulse therapy on influenza-associated encephalopathy

J Infect. 2005 Aug;51(2):E53-6. doi: 10.1016/j.jinf.2004.08.017.

Abstract

Patients with a new type of influenza-associated encephalopathy with high mortality are increasing in Japan and the United States. We present three patients treated with methyprednisolone pulse treatment and plasma exchange to remove cytokines, and all three patients recovered without severe sequela. IL-6 decreased dramatically after the start of the plasma exchange and methyprednisolone. Therefore when influenza-associated encephalopathy is actually diagnosed, steroid pulse therapy should be started at an early stage, and when signs of DIC and/or MOF appear, plasma exchange is recommended to remove the cytokines and NOx.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Brain Diseases / therapy*
  • Brain Diseases / virology*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cytokines / analysis
  • Humans
  • Influenza, Human / complications*
  • Interleukin-6 / blood
  • Male
  • Methylprednisolone / administration & dosage*
  • Neuroprotective Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Plasma Exchange*
  • Pulse Therapy, Drug
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Cytokines
  • Interleukin-6
  • Neuroprotective Agents
  • Methylprednisolone