National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center, a program of the National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences

Rasmussen encephalitis


Other Names:
RE
Categories:
Rasmussen encephalitis is a chronic inflammatory neurological disease that usually affects only one hemisphere of the brain. It most often occurs in children under the age of 10, although adolescents and adults may also be affected. Rasmussen encephalitis is characterized by frequent and severe seizures, loss of motor skills and speech, paralysis on one side of the body (hemiparesis), inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), and mental deterioration. While the cause of Rasmussen encephalitis is unknown, there is evidence that in many patients it is an autoimmune disorder.[1] Immune therapy and surgery may be used for treatment.[2]
Last updated: 3/22/2012
The underlying cause of Rasmussen encephalitis remains unknown. Current evidence suggests that autoimmune processes are responsible for the damage to the brain cells.[1][3] In most patients, the trigger of the abnormal immune response is unclear, although it may follow an otherwise minor bacterial or viral infection or head injury.[2]  Rasmussen encephalitis is a sporadic disease. It has not been associated with any particular environments or populations and cannot be caught from others.[3] Research is underway to help better understand the underlying cause.[1][3]
Last updated: 3/22/2012
Anti-epileptic drugs are usually not effective in controlling the seizures associated with Rasmussen encephalitis. Recent studies have shown some success with treatments that suppress or modulate the immune system, in particular those that use corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin, or tacrolimus. Surgery to control seizures may be performed in later stages of the disease when neurological deficits stabilize. Surgical procedures, such as functional hemispherectomy (removal of half of the brain) and hemispherotomy (a surgical procedure for hemispheric disconnection), may reduce the frequency of seizures and also improve behavior and cognitive abilities.[1]   
Last updated: 3/22/2012

Research helps us better understand diseases and can lead to advances in diagnosis and treatment. This section provides resources to help you learn about medical research and ways to get involved.

Clinical Research Resources

  • ClinicalTrials.gov lists trials that are related to Rasmussen encephalitis. Click on the link to go to ClinicalTrials.gov to read descriptions of these studies.

    Please note: Studies listed on the ClinicalTrials.gov website are listed for informational purposes only; being listed does not reflect an endorsement by GARD or the NIH. We strongly recommend that you talk with a trusted healthcare provider before choosing to participate in any clinical study.

Support and advocacy groups can help you connect with other patients and families, and they can provide valuable services. Many develop patient-centered information and are the driving force behind research for better treatments and possible cures. They can direct you to research, resources, and services. Many organizations also have experts who serve as medical advisors or provide lists of doctors/clinics. Visit the group’s website or contact them to learn about the services they offer. Inclusion on this list is not an endorsement by GARD.

Organizations Supporting this Disease

These resources provide more information about this condition or associated symptoms. The in-depth resources contain medical and scientific language that may be hard to understand. You may want to review these resources with a medical professional.

Where to Start

  • MedlinePlus was designed by the National Library of Medicine to help you research your health questions, and it provides more information about this topic.
  • The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) collects and disseminates research information related to neurological disorders. Click on the link to view information on this topic.
  • The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) has a report for patients and families about this condition. NORD is a patient advocacy organization for individuals with rare diseases and the organizations that serve them.
  • The Hemispherectomy Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, was founded to provide emotional, financial, and educational support to individuals and their families who have undergone, or will undergo, a hemispherectomy or similar brain surgery. This organization provides information about Rasmussen encephalitis. Click on the link to view this information.
  • The Encephalitis Society is a UK based charity set up by people affected by encephalitis in 1994. This group provides information about Rasmussen encephalitis. Click on the link to view information related to this topic.

In-Depth Information

  • PubMed is a searchable database of medical literature and lists journal articles that discuss Rasmussen encephalitis. Click on the link to view a sample search on this topic.

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  1. NINDS Rasmussen's Encephalitis Information Page. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Rasmussens-Encephalitis-Information-Page. Accessed 3/16/2017.
  2. Ellerington A. Rasmussen Encephalitis. The Encephalitis Society. February 2014; https://www.encephalitis.info/support/information/practical-resources-on-encephalitis/types-of-encephalitis/types-of-autoimmune-encephalitis/rasmussen-s-encephalitis/.
  3. Frequently Asked Questions by Parents of Children with Rasmussen's Encephalitis (RE). RE Children's Project. Janurary 2012; http://rechildrens.org/images/stories/RE_FAQ_Jan_2012.pdf. Accessed 3/22/2012.