Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis is a long-term complication of which viral infection?

• A. Rubella
• B. Measles
• C. Varicella
• D. Mumps

Answer: (B)

Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a rare but serious progressive neurological disorder that can occur as a long-term complication of a prior measles infection. It typically manifests several years after the initial infection, often between ages 5 and 15, and is characterized by cognitive decline, seizures, and motor disturbances. The relationship between measles and SSPE is well-established, with SSPE resulting from the persistence of the measles virus in the brain, leading to progressive neuronal degeneration.

The hallmark features of SSPE include the gradual onset of neurological symptoms and the identification of the measles virus in brain tissue. The incidence of SSPE has decreased significantly with widespread measles vaccination, which underscores the importance of preventive measures against measles.

Other viral infections listed, such as rubella, varicella, and mumps, do not have such a direct correlation with SSPE. While they can lead to other complications, they are not associated with the long-term neurodegenerative sequelae observed in SSPE following measles infection.