Inflammation of the brain.
It is generally due to a viral infection, often enterovirus, measles or the varicella zoster virus. A bacterium, parasite or fungi can also cause it.
Most cases are mild cases with flu-like symptoms with a headache. In severe cases, it may cause a sudden clinical picture of fever, intense headache, stiff neck, seizures, drowsiness, impaired consciousness and coma.
Diagnosis is reached through reviewing the patient's clinical history and a complete physical examination. Complementary examinations are necessary to complete the study: blood and cerebrospinal fluid tests, serology for antibodies against viruses, CT-scan, electroencephalogram and/or MRI.
The vast majority of viral encephalitis subside spontaneously, only being necessary to treat the symptoms. When the patient’s general condition is greatly affected or if there is confusion, agitation or very severe head pain, hospitalisation may be necessary for treatment and stabilisation.
- Hordur S Hardarson, MD. Acute viral encephalitis in children: Clinical manifestations and diagnosis. UpToDate. Oct 06, 2016.
- Hordur S Hardarson, MD. Acute viral encephalitis in children: Pathogenesis, incidence, and etiology. UpToDate. Oct 06, 2016.
- Hordur S Hardarson, MD. Acute viral encephalitis in children: Treatment and prevention. UpToDate. Oct 06, 2016.
- Venkatesan A, Tunkel AR, Bloch KC, et al. Case definitions, diagnostic algorithms, and priorities in encephalitis: consensus statement of the international encephalitis consortium. Clin Infect Dis 2013; 57:1114.
- Tunkel AR, Glaser CA, Bloch KC, et al. The management of encephalitis: clinical practice guidelines by the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Clin Infect Dis 2008; 47:303.
