Chlamydia pneumoniae-associated ADEM

Abstract

Inflammatory demyelinating diseases are a common cause of neurologic disability in young adults, and usually the cause is unknown. We describe a case of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) associated with Chlamydia pneumoniae infection. An 18-year-old previously healthy women, with a one-week history of coryzal illness, was admitted because of progressive headache, dizziness, and a left-sided hemiparesis. MR imaging of the brain and brainstem showed typical signs of ADEM. The diagnosis was established by PCR Chlamydia pneumoniae DNA positivity in a tracheal swab and by increasing titres of Chlamydia IgM antibody. The patient was treated with doxycycline and steroids and recovered completely. Apart from therapeutic implications, this case may contribute to our understanding of demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system.