Definition of Sclerosing panencephalitis, subacute (SSPE)

Sclerosing panencephalitis, subacute (SSPE): A chronic brain disease of children and adolescents that occurs months to often years after an attack of measles, causing convulsions, motor abnormalities, mental retardation and, usually, death.

Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionary
http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=6312
Last Editorial Review: 6/14/2012