Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis

Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is a neurological disorder, which causes a short and sudden inflammatory attack of the brain and spinal cord that damages the myelin sheath -- the fatty tissue that protects nerve cells in the same way that insulation protects electrical wiring in a house. Myelin also helps nerve fibers conduct electrical impulses to and from the brain. Conditions that cause damage to the myelin sheath are called demyelinating disorders.

ADEM is the most common demyelinating disorder seen in children, and is more common in children than in adults. The disorder may occur after a child experiences a viral infection or has vaccination for measles, mumps or rubella, although in some cases, there is no proceeding cause. The prognosis for children who develop ADEM varies. In many cases, with treatment, recovery begins within days of the attack.

At UCSF's Children's Hospital, our Regional Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis Center specializes in the care of children and adolescents with ADEM and related demyelinating diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), Devic's disease and optic neuritis. The only center of its kind on the West Coast, we are designated by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society as a center of excellence in comprehensive care for pediatric patients with ADEM and related diseases. We are dedicated to improving the treatment, diagnosis and awareness of children and adolescents with ADEM and related conditions.

For more information or to make an appointment, please call:
Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis Center (415) 353-3939

For help finding a doctor, please contact our Physician Referral Service:

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Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Children's Hospital.
Last updated May 10, 2007