The full form of ADM in medical term is “Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis.”
Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis is a neurological disorder that is very rare. It affects the brain and spinal cord.It is characterized by sudden symptoms, such as fever, headache, confusion, and difficulty walking or standing. ADEM is most commonly seen in children and young adults, although it can affect people of all ages.
ADEM is caused by an abnormal immune response, which results in inflammation and damage to the myelin sheath that covers nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. This damage disrupts the normal transmission of signals between the brain and the rest of the body, leading to the symptoms of ADEM.
Symptoms of ADEM usually appear a few days to a few weeks after a person has had a viral or bacterial infection or after receiving certain vaccines.
Diagnosis of ADEM typically involves a combination of neurological examination, brain imaging, and laboratory tests. Treatment of ADEM usually involves using immunosuppressive drugs, such as corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation and prevent further damage to the myelin sheath. In some cases, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and plasma exchange may also be used.
Prevention of ADEM is not possible, as the disorder is often triggered by infections or vaccinations that are difficult to predict or prevent. However, prompt diagnosis and treatment can help to minimize the damage caused by ADEM and improve the chances of a full recovery.