ADEM
Medical abbreviation · Neurology
| Stands for | Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
ADEM stands for Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, a neurology abbreviation.
Inflammatory demyelinating illness, usually in children, that often follows a viral infection or, rarely, vaccination. It causes rapid onset of confusion or drowsiness with multiple neurological deficits and widespread white matter lesions on MRI.
Example: Six-year-old with encephalopathy and ataxia two weeks after a viral illness; MRI shows large bilateral lesions: ADEM.
Usage notes
ADEM is typically monophasic, meaning it occurs once, unlike multiple sclerosis. High-dose intravenous steroids are first-line treatment, with IVIG or plasma exchange for poor responses. Many children with relapsing ADEM-like illness test positive for MOG antibodies. Most recover well, though some have lasting deficits.
Related abbreviations
More neurology abbreviations
- ABCD2 – Age, Blood pressure, Clinical features, Duration, Diabetes
- ACA – Anterior cerebral artery
- AChR – Acetylcholine receptor
- ACom – Anterior communicating artery
- AD – Alzheimer's disease
- AED – Antiepileptic drug
- AIS – Acute ischemic stroke
- ALS – Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
- AMS – Altered mental status
- ASIA – American Spinal Injury Association
- ASM – Antiseizure medication
- ASPECTS – Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score
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This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.