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Encephalitis
Encephalitis
Encephalitis
Encephalitis Definitions
Encephalitis can be divided into two forms, primary and secondary encephalitis. Primary
encephalitis occurs when a virus directly invades the brain and spinal cord. Secondary, or
post-infectious encephalitis occurs when a virus first infects another organ and secondarily
enters the brain.
Encephalitis Causes
The causes of encephalitis are usually infectious, but may also be due to some noninfectious
causes. Three broad categories of viruses-herpes viruses, viruses responsible for childhood
infections, and arboviruses-typically trigger encephalitis. Encephalitis generally results from
infection with arboviruses specific to rural areas. In urban areas, it's most frequently caused
by enteroviruses.
Encephalitis Symptoms
All viral forms of encephalitis have similar clinical features, although certain differences do
occur. After the acute phase of the illness, coma may persist for days or weeks.
fever
headache
vomiting
stiff neck
Drowsiness
malaise
stupor
irritability
coma
Seizures
impaired judgment
drowsiness,
weak muscles
confusion judgment
Poor responsiveness
a clumsy and unsteady gait
Encephalitis Treatments
The goals of treatment are to provide supportive care and relieve symptoms.
Antibiotics may be prescribed when the infection is caused by some organisms, such as
certain bacteria.
Antiviral medications may be prescribed for herpes encephalitis or other severe viral
infections.
If brain function is severely affected, interventions like physical therapy and speech therapy
may be necessary after the acute illness is controlled.