Sub-acute sclerosing panencephaitis (SSPE ) is seen in which of the following communicable diseases?

RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2016

Applied Microbiology & Infection control

Easy

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2016

Explanation

Sub-acute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE) is a progressive, fatal neurological disorder affecting the central nervous system.
It is caused by a persistent infection with a defective measles virus that remains dormant in the body for many years after the initial illness.
The onset of symptoms, such as cognitive decline and myoclonus, typically occurs 7 to 13 years after the primary measles infection.
The risk of developing SSPE is significantly higher in individuals who had measles before the age of two.
Prevention of measles through vaccination is the only effective way to prevent SSPE.

Option B: Rubella is not the cause of SSPE. While it can cause neurological issues, its most severe form is Congenital Rubella Syndrome if a pregnant woman is infected.
Option C: Mumps is not associated with SSPE. Its primary neurological complication is aseptic meningitis.
Option D: Chickenpox (caused by the varicella-zoster virus) does not cause SSPE. Its main neurological complication in children is acute cerebellar ataxia.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Etiology of Sub-acute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A nurse's primary role in preventing SSPE is through patient and parent education on the importance of the MMR vaccine and ensuring adherence to the national immunization schedule.
When assessing a child or adolescent with new-onset seizures, behavioral changes, or intellectual decline, it is crucial to obtain a thorough history, including past infections and vaccination status, as a history of measles could point towards SSPE.
What if? If a 10-year-old child with a history of contracting measles at age 2 (and being unvaccinated) presents with sudden muscle jerks and a drop in school performance, the nurse should have a high index of suspicion for SSPE and ensure the healthcare team initiates a prompt and thorough neurological evaluation.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question stem: 'Sub-acute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE)'.
Recognize this as a specific, named neurological syndrome. This is a factual recall question.
Access your knowledge about the long-term complications of common viral diseases.
Directly link SSPE to its known cause: a persistent measles virus infection.
Evaluate the other options. Recall the typical complications of Rubella (congenital syndrome), Mumps (meningitis, orchitis), and Chickenpox (cerebellar ataxia, shingles) to confirm they are incorrect distractors.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 1 p. 1967-1969

E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 1 p. 1159-1161