Pandemic influenza A (H1N1) 2009 with neurological manifestations, a case series

Influenza Other Respir Viruses. 2010 May 1;4(3):117-20. doi: 10.1111/j.1750-2659.2010.00131.x.

Abstract

Objectives: Describe a series of atypical presentations of pandemic influenza A (H1N1) 2009.

Methods: Description of case series using hospital records.

Results: Six patients aged 1 to 65 years with confirmed pandemic influenza A (H1N1) 2009 infection presented with neurological complications within 2 to 5 days after the first signs of influenza-like illness. All six were admitted with seizures or altered mental status. No abnormalities were found in brain scans or cerebral spinal fluid studies of any of the six. All were discharged without sequelae within days of admission.

Conclusions: This is only the second report of pandemic influenza presenting with neurological manifestations. Clinicians caring for patients when pandemic influenza is prevalent in their communities should maintain a high level of awareness of the potential atypical presentations with which this disease can appear.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Cognition Disorders / etiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype / isolation & purification*
  • Influenza, Human / complications*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Seizures / etiology*