What is a rare complication of measles infections?

Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a rare but serious neurological complication that can occur several years after a measles infection. This condition typically develops in children who have had measles, usually about 7 to 10 years after the initial infection. It is characterized by progressive neurological deterioration, seizures, and ultimately, severe cognitive impairment and death.

The exact mechanism of SSPE involves a persistent infection of the measles virus in the central nervous system, leading to progressive inflammation and demyelination. While most people recover from measles without any long-term effects, SSPE represents a delayed manifestation of the infection and highlights the long-term dangers of measles, particularly in unvaccinated populations.

Other options, while potentially associated with measles or its complications, do not match the rarity of SSPE. For example, respiratory syncytial virus is a separate viral infection, and aseptic meningitis, while a known complication of many viral infections, is not specifically tied to measles. Dehydration can occur in cases of measles due to diarrhea or significant respiratory illness but is not an uncommon complication and is more directly related to the acute phase of the illness rather than a rare long-term outcome.