Opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome after adenovirus infection

Autoimmune and paraneoplastic movement disorders are rare in childhood. Diagnosis often relies on clinical manifestations and clinicians’ recognition. A 22-month-old girl at onset of opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome (OMS) was followed for 8 years. Adenovirus (type C subtype 3) infection coincided with manifestation. Data on treatment, imaging and follow-up are provided. In the spinal fluid, elevated anti-rubella antibodies and oligoclonal bands were detected. An autoimmune process affecting mainly cerebellar neurons was revealed immunohistochemically. Moderately intense long-term immunosuppressive therapy resulted in a favorable clinical outcome. A video demonstrated severe OMS manifestations at onset, followed by nearly complete recovery after treatment. We describe the association of a parainfectious OMS and adenovirus infection; laboratory results indicate a non-specific humoral process affecting mainly cerebellar neurons. Our video documentation will aid to recognize this rare movement disorder and to initiate early treatment. ELECTRONIC SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIAL: The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s40064-015-1429-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.