Acute necrotizing encephalopathy in an infant: A case report

Acute necrotizing encephalopathy is a rare, severe neurological condition, characterized by symmetrical necrotic brain lesions affecting the thalamus, cerebral white matter, brain stem, and cerebellum. Diagnosis relies on characteristic clinical and radiological features. We describe a 10-month-old female infant presenting with multiple seizures following a brief febrile upper respiratory illness. MRI of the brain showed bilateral symmetrical abnormal signal intensities involving both thalami and caudate nucleus, consistent with ANE. Management of ANE is symptom-related but high-dose steroids and IVIG have been used. This case highlights the importance of recognizing ANE beyond its usual geographic distribution. Early recognition and prompt management help improve outcomes.