Mal de Pelea, also known as Pelea Disease, is a chronic disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) that affects infants and children in parts of South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. The condition is characterized by recurring episodes of certain neurological symptoms, including seizures, muscle weakness, changes in mental status, and severe headache (Velasco et al., 2019). The cause of Mal de Pelea is still not known; however, there is evidence to suggest that it may be due to a combination of environmental and genetic factors (Chacón-Salinas et al., 2020).
Mal de Pelea typically begins in infancy, with symptoms usually appearing during the first year of life. These symptoms can include fever, seizures, weakness, and difficulty breathing (Velasco et al., 2019). Other signs and symptoms may include loss of appetite, irritability, poor weight gain, vomiting, and difficulty feeding (Chacón-Salinas et al., 2020). In some cases, the condition can cause permanent neurological damage, including intellectual disability and learning difficulties (Velasco et al., 2019).
Diagnosis of Mal de Pelea is based on the patient’s history and physical exam. In some cases, additional tests may be needed to confirm the diagnosis, including electroencephalogram (EEG), cerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, and lumbar puncture (Chacón-Salinas et al., 2020). Treatment of Mal de Pelea is based on the severity of the symptoms, and may include medications to reduce seizures, physical therapy, and other supportive measures (Velasco et al., 2019).
In conclusion, Mal de Pelea is a chronic neurological disorder that affects infants and children in parts of South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. The condition is characterized by recurrent episodes of certain neurological symptoms, including seizures, muscle weakness, changes in mental status, and severe headache. The cause of the disorder is still unknown, but it is thought to be due to a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Diagnosis is based on the patient’s history and physical exam, and treatment usually includes medications, physical therapy, and other supportive measures.
References
Chacón-Salinas, D., Barnoya, J., Moguel, T., & Núñez-Rojas, J. (2020). Mal de Pelea: A review of the current state of knowledge. Frontiers in Pediatrics, 8, 547. https://doi.org/10.3389/fped.2020.00547
Velasco, J. R., Sosa, M. E., & Leguizamón, M. F. (2019). Mal de Pelea: A rare neurological disorder of childhood. Revista de Neurología, 68(5), 192–200. https://doi.org/10.33588/rn.6805.2001317