ADEM
Pronunciation: AY-dem
Also written as: ADEM — Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis
Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, a monophasic inflammatory demyelinating disease typically following infection or vaccination.
Full Definition
Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is a rare, typically monophasic inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system that predominantly affects children and young adults. It usually occurs following viral infections or vaccinations and is characterized by widespread multifocal lesions in both gray and white matter. Unlike multiple sclerosis, ADEM typically presents as a single episode with no subsequent relapses, though diagnosis can be challenging in the acute phase when distinguishing from first presentations of MS.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish carefully from AHLE (acute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis) in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The pediatric patient's presentation was consistent with ADEM rather than pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis." — Clinical assessment
- "Follow-up imaging at six months showed resolution of lesions, supporting the ADEM diagnosis." — Progress note