ADEM

My daughter had ADEM as a result of a virus Sept 99 and has improved alot since then.  My question is she still has trouble with balance, cordination, simple understanding of things and memory of events that happened 6-9 months ago.   She is currently working on a computer program to help with cognitive function.  What are the chances this far out that there will still be some healing of her brain?
Also, after she has had a very tiring day or emotional one she is very uncordinated and emotional for days afterwards until she gets rested.
Thank you for your help.

[CCF-Neuro-M.D.-JT]

Sorry to hear about your daughter's recent illness. The location and extent of the lesions in her brain would be important in helping to prognosticate. Some patients do completely recover. Unfortunately, a significant number are left with permanent behavioral and intellectual problems, especially children. This doesn;t mean you should give up on your daughter (don't know her age). THe computer program sounds like a great rehab tool for her. Explore your local health resources so she can continue to benefit from physical and cognitive therapy. If the lesions in her brain were extensive, then it is understandable if she's a bit off when she's worn out. Continue to patiently work with her and just let her rest when she's tired. Best of luck to both of you.

[Colleen Johnson]

ADEM-Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis

[Colleen Johnson]

I was so excited in getting to post a question I forgot her age.  She is 27 now, this happened 2 1/2 years ago, summer of 99. Her Neuro says the damage is all over her brain and brain stem.  She has recently completed 6 more weeks of physical therapy, only to end up back were she was within a week after completing the session.