RASMUSSEN'S SYNDROME

Subacute focal encephalitis of Rasmussen involves cortical inflammatory infiltration which may on occasion be bilateral. The presence of anti-Glu R3 antibodies in some patients suggests that an autoimmune process may be involved. Although a small number of patients respond transiently to immunoglobulins and the condition of some is partially improved by steroids, only hemispherectomy seems to produce prolonged relief of seizures. Subpial cortical transection may be useful if hemiplegia has not developed.