17. Meningoencephalitis

Question 1

What is meningoencephalitis?

Answer 1

Encephalitis => inflammation of the brain parenchyma

Meningoencephalitis => inflammatory process inv. brain and meninges

Question 2

Cause

Answer 2

V: Measles, Epstein-Barr virus
B: Listeria monocytogenes, Neisseria meningitidis
Protozoa: Trypanosoma brucei, Toxoplasma gondii
Toxins, vasculitis, autoimmune disorders,

Question 3

Symptoms

Answer 3

Sudden high fever.
Severe, persistent headache.
Neck stiffness.
Nausea or vomiting.
Discomfort in bright lights.
Drowsiness or difficulty awakening.
Joint pain.

Question 4

Diagnosis

Answer 4

Lumbar puncture, CT or MRI

Question 5

Treatment

Answer 5

B: Antibiotic treatment
Herpes: Acyclovir