Encephalitis Flashcards
1
Q
What is the definition of encephalitis?
A
Acute inflammation of the brain parenchyma
2
Q
What causes encephalitis?
A
Usually viral
- HSV most common
- Others include VZV, other herpes group viruses, HHV-6, 7, enteroviruses, adenovirus
Antibody mediated
- Limbic encephalitis
- Associated with underlying malignancy or autoimmune
3
Q
What are some clinical features of encephalitis?
A
Fever
Meningism
Personality/behavioural change progressing to reduced consciousness and coma
Seizures
Focal neurological deficits (eg speech disturbance)
4
Q
What is the management of encephalitis?
A
HSV and VZV
- Immediate IV acyclovir before results are available
