The Zika virus, which is spreading across Brazil and the world, may be linked to an autoimmune brain disorder, according to new findings. The researchers suggest this autoimmune brain disorder is similar to multiple sclerosis. So far, Zika virus is already tied to a birth defect known as microcephaly and Guillain-Barre syndrome.
The autoimmune brain disorder, known as acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM), attacks the myelin in a manner similar to that occurring in multiple sclerosis. The myelin is a protective coating around nerves in the brain and spinal cord. Study author Dr. Maria Lucia Brito Ferreira said, “Though our study is small, it may provide evidence that in this case, the virus has different effects on the brain than those identified in current studies.”
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“Much more research will need to be done to explore whether there is a causal link between Zika and these brain problems,” added Dr. Ferreira who will present the findings at the American Academy of Neurology in Vancouver, Canada.
The study looked at six individuals who developed neurological symptoms that were similar to that of Zika virus, dengue, and chikungunya. For some individuals, the symptoms occurred immediately, and for others the onset of symptoms was up to 15 days later.
Of the six, two patients develop ADEM and four developed Guillain-Barre syndrome. After being discharged from the hospital, five patients had movement problems, one had vision impairment, and one had memory and thinking problems. All six patients tested positive for Zika virus.
Dr. Ferreira added, “This doesn’t mean that all people infected with Zika will experience these brain problems. Of those who have nervous system problems, most do not have brain symptoms. However, our study may shed light on possible lingering effects the virus may be associated with in the brain.”
Although cases of ADEM are not as prevalent as Guillain-Barre syndrome, the disorder should still be something doctors look for when testing Zika patients.
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Dr. James Sejvar of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stated, “Of course, the remaining question is ‘why’ — why does Zika virus appear to have this strong association with [Guillain-Barre] and potentially other immune/inflammatory diseases of the nervous system?”
Continued research may one day help to answer these pressing questions.
Mohan Garikiparithi got his degree in medicine from Osmania University (University of Health Sciences). He practiced clinical medicine for over a decade before he shifted his focus to the field of health communications. During his active practice he served as the head of the Dept. of Microbiology in a diagnostic centre in India. On a three-year communications program in Germany, Mohan developed a keen interest in German Medicine (Homoeopathy), and other alternative systems of medicine. He now advocates treating different medical conditions without the use of traditional drugs. An ardent squash player, Mohan believes in the importance of fitness and wellness.
