Encephalitis

Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain.

Causes

Most cases of encephalitis are caused either by a viral infection or by the body's reaction to a viral infection. The most common viruses that cause encephalitis include:
  • Viruses carried by mosquitoes
  • Chickenpox virus
  • Herpes simplex virus
  • Poliovirus
  • Measles virus
  • Mumps virus
  • Rabies

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
  • Living, working, or playing in an area where mosquito-born viruses are common
  • Not being immunized against diseases such as:
    • Measles
    • Mumps
    • Chickenpox
    • Polio
  • Weak immune system due to:
    • Treatment for cancer
    • Immunosuppressive medications after organ transplant
    • AIDS

Symptoms

Smptoms include:
  • Fever
  • Weakness, severe fatigue
  • Headache
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Stiff neck and back
  • Vomiting
  • Muscle aches
  • Rash
  • Personality changes
  • Confusion
  • Irritability
  • Seizures
  • Partial paralysis
  • Trouble walking
  • Trouble swallowing

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam.
Tests may include:
  • Blood tests – to look for signs of infection
  • Spinal tap – to test spinal fluid for signs of infection
  • CT and/or MRI scans of the head – to look for abnormal areas in the brain
  • Electroencephalogram – to look for abnormal areas in the brain
  • Brain biopsy – removal of a small sample of brain tissue to test for signs of infection

Treatment

Treatment may include:
  • Antiviral drugs – may help shorten the duration of the illness
  • Steroid medications – to decrease brain swelling
  • Anticonvulsant medications – to prevent and/or treat seizures

Prevention

Make sure that you and your children are vaccinated against preventable viral illnesses.