This medical condition has either been superseded or has become inactive
Specific Conditions
  • Rasmussen syndrome
Level of Evidence Evidence of probable benefit – more research needed (Category 2a)
Rasmussen syndrome is a chronic, progressive, focal encephalitis that is commonly accompanied by focal seizures, hemiparesis and cognitive decline. It is generally considered to be a disease of childhood, with most cases occurring in children younger than 10 years, although adult onset cases do occur. Conventional anticonvulsant therapy is usually ineffective and hemispherectomy may be helpful in the correct setting.

Immunomodulatory therapy may be useful and, of the different therapies, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) may be most useful. Other therapies to consider include methylprednisolone and rituximab.

Ongoing supply of IVIg would be based on evidence of stabilisation of either seizure frequency or cognitive decline.

Refer to the current product information sheet for further information.

The aim should be to use the lowest dose possible that achieves the appropriate clinical outcome for each patient.