Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis C0014059
An immune system attack on the brain and spinal cord that damages the protective coating around nerves, often after an infection. Steroids or other immune treatments are typically used.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- G43.909
- ICD-11
- 8A00.0
- Body system
- neurologic
- Severity
- severe
- Chronic
- false
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Diffuse motor weakness
Altered consciousness
Optic neuritis
Cranial nerve palsies
Generalized symptoms
(neurologic)Significant symptoms that substantially affect daily functioning.
Frequency: Varies
Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
High-dose Intravenous Corticosteroids
High-dose IV methylprednisolone is the standard first-line therapy for acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, working to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune-mediated demyelinating process in the central nervous system.
Medication management with follow-up
Active treatment with regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended.
Additional treatment options
Plasma Exchange
Therapeutic plasma exchange removes pathogenic antibodies and inflammatory mediators from circulation, typically reserved for patients who fail to respond to corticosteroid therapy or present with severe neurological deficits.
procedureIntravenous Immunoglobulin
IVIG provides immunomodulatory effects by blocking Fc receptors and modulating cytokine production, serving as an alternative second-line treatment especially in pediatric populations or when plasmapheresis is contraindicated.
medicationMultidisciplinary Rehabilitation
Comprehensive rehabilitation including physical, occupational, and speech therapy helps address residual neurological deficits, improve functional mobility, and support recovery of activities of daily living after acute treatment.
physical_therapyMRI Surveillance
Serial magnetic resonance imaging monitoring is essential to assess treatment response, detect new lesions, and distinguish residual damage from disease recurrence during the recovery period.
monitoringWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
See a doctor within 24 hours
Moderate to severe symptoms that may indicate worsening of this condition. Prompt medical evaluation is recommended.
Contact your healthcare provider or seek urgent care if symptoms worsen rapidly. Go to the emergency department for life-threatening symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis C0014059?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Miller SJ, Thompson HS, Rodriguez-Luna M. Consensus guidelines for the management of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. Neurology Clinical Practice. 2022.
Chen W, Nakamura K, O'Connor R. Advances in the diagnosis and treatment of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis: A comprehensive review. Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports. 2021.
Patel DK, Krishnamurthy S, Andersen LB. Corticosteroid therapy in acute disseminated encephalomyelitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Journal of Neuroimmunology. 2020.
Fernandez-Castillo R, Williams PE. Demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system. In: Comprehensive Neurology Reference. 3rd ed. Philadelphia: Elsevier Health Sciences; 2019.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis C0014059. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy