Pathophysiology of acute encephalopathy associated with cytokine storm using clinical samples combined with clinical database

2020 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 18K15711
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Early-Career Scientists
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: Basic Section 52050:Embryonic medicine and pediatrics-related
• Research Institution: Kobe University
• Principal Investigator: Nishiyama Masahiro 神戸大学, 医学部附属病院, 講師 (50741667)
• Project Period (FY): 2018-04-01 – 2021-03-31
• Keywords: acute encephalopathy / cytokine / inflammation / status epilepticus

Outline of Final Research Achievements

Acute encephalopathy is a major neurological syndrome characterized by acute onset of severe and long-lasting disturbance of consciousness, which typically occur in previously healthy children. Acute encephalopathy associated with cytokine storm is the most severe syndrome among those syndromes. However, specific treatment strategy for this conditions yet to be established. Therefore, we have researched the pathophysiology of acute encephalopathy associated with cytokine storm using clinical samples combined with clinical database. In this research, we have provided the new insights on the pathophysiology and a detailed clinical picture of acute encephalopathy associated with cytokine by a comprehensive analysis of inflammatory biomarkers. Further, we have suggested that earlier aggressive anti-inflammation treatment might prevent sequelae in these conditions. More comprehensive analysis on pathophysiology and specific treatment strategy for each pathophysiology are needed.

Free Research Field

小児神経学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

急性脳症は、生来健康であった乳幼児に認知障害・麻痺・てんかんなどの重篤な後遺症を残す疾患で、年間700人の発症があると推定されている。本研究では、急性脳症における炎症病態のダイナミックな変化が明らかとなった。臨床情報とともに解析できたことで、至適時期に抗炎症治療を行うための重要な知見も得られた。本研究で得られた成果をもとに、急性脳症の治療戦略確立が期待される。予後不良なサイトカインストーム型急性脳症の死亡・後遺症軽減を達成することは、患児本人や家族はもちろん、社会全体にとっても重要である。