Post-infectious Basal Ganglia Encephalitis Caused by Mumps: A Case Series

Abstract

Background

Mumps is a highly neurotropic virus causing a wide variety of neurologic complications. Post-/para-infectious basal ganglia encephalitis is one of its rare complications, with higher morbidity compared with other complications.

Cases

We present 5 cases with basal ganglia encephalitis secondary to mumps infection. A recent history of parotitis or febrile illness with serologic evidence of mumps, combined with acute onset of movement disorders, behavioral changes with or without seizures, and basal ganglia abnormalities on neuroimaging, suggests the diagnosis. The occurrence of extrapyramidal symptoms during recovery from a febrile illness, along with clinical improvement following immunomodulatory therapy, further supports the diagnosis.

Conclusion

Post-mumps basal ganglia encephalitis has higher morbidity than other mumps complications. Slower recovery and increased duration of hospitalization are noted. Including the mumps vaccine in routine immunization schedules is an effective way to prevent mumps and its associated basal ganglia encephalitis.