CNS Infection - Encephalitis

Question 1

What causes encephalitis?

Answer 1

infective e.g., herpes simplex virus
autoimmune
chicken pox, epstein barr virus, polio, mumps, rubella

Question 2

What are the symptoms of encephalitis?

Answer 2

altered consciousness
altered cognition
unusual behaviour
acute onset of focal neurological symptoms
acute onset of focal seizures
fever

Question 3

How is encephalitis diagnosed?

Answer 3

lumbar puncture - CSF for viral PCR
CT scan if lumbar puncture contraindicated
MRI scan after lumbar puncture
HIV testing

Question 4

How is encephalitis treated?

Answer 4

IV acyclovir - herpes and varicella zoster
IV gancyclovir - cytomegalovirus

Question 5

What must be done before stopping antivirals?

Answer 5

repeat lumbar puncture to ensure successful treatment before stopping anti-virals

Question 5

What are the key complications of encephalitis?

Answer 5

lasting fatigue
hormonal imbalance
change in personality and mood
change to memory and cognition
headaches, chronic pain, seizures