CSF analysis in measles-associated SSPE commonly shows what finding?

CSF analysis in measles-associated SSPE commonly shows what finding?

• A. Elevated immunoglobulins in CSF
• B. Normal protein levels in CSF
• C. Decreased immunoglobulins in CSF
• D. Low glucose in CSF

Answer: (A)

SSPE is a chronic CNS infection from persistent measles virus that triggers immune activity inside the brain. This intrathecal immune response leads to increased production of immunoglobulins, so CSF commonly shows elevated IgG (often with oligoclonal bands) and detectable measles-specific antibodies. Glucose is typically normal, and protein can be elevated but is less specific. Thus elevated immunoglobulins in CSF best characterize the finding.

SSPE is a chronic CNS infection from persistent measles virus that triggers immune activity inside the brain. This intrathecal immune response leads to increased production of immunoglobulins, so CSF commonly shows elevated IgG (often with oligoclonal bands) and detectable measles-specific antibodies. Glucose is typically normal, and protein can be elevated but is less specific. Thus elevated immunoglobulins in CSF best characterize the finding.