Rasmussen's Syndrome

Rasmussen's syndrome, also known as Rasmussen's encephalitis, begins in childhood and produces a slow deterioration of one whole side (hemisphere) of the brain with loss of function on the opposite side of the body. An autoimmune response to a viral infection has been suggested as a possible cause. Various types of treatment have been tried, including surgical removal of the affected side of the brain. In children, the remaining hemisphere may compensate for functions lost, but weakness on the affected side will remain.

The condition typically starts with seizures, with weakness appearing later in the course of the disorder. Simple partial seizures affecting movement are the most common form.