Severe neurological manifestations of influenza during 2018-2019 influenza season: Case series of 13 pediatric patients

Abstract

Influenza is mostly associated with the respiratory tract system, especially in the winter season. Various neurological complications could occur due to influenza infection. Pediatric patients who had severe neurological manifestations due to influenza infection from September 2018 to February 2019 were evaluated for clinical characteristics, neuroimaging studies, treatment, and outcome. We aimed to assess Influenza-associated encephalitis in children, emphasize different neurological manifestations and neuroimaging changes. Thirteen patients were included in the study. Neurological symptoms occurred after flu-like symptoms. Neuroimaging changes of influenza-associated encephalitis/encephalopathy include cortical and subcortical white matter signal alterations, localized or generalized edema, and bilateral symmetrical multifocal lesions on the thalamus and cerebellar medulla. Pulse methylprednisolone, intravenous immunoglobulin, plasma exchange, and oseltamivir are the therapy choices. It is essential to consider influenza-associated encephalitis in patients with seizures, encephalopathy with supporting radiological findings, especially during the influenza season and starting treatment as fast as possible for better outcomes.