Encephalitis Flashcards
1
Q
What is encephalitis?
A
Inflammation of the brain parenchyma
2
Q
What are risk factors for encephalitis?
A
- Age < 1 or >65
- Immunosuppressed
- Post viral infection e.g. HSV-1 most common cause for adults, EBV, Varicella
3
Q
How does encephalitis present?
A
- Fever
- Headache
- Altered mental state
- Seizures
- Vomiting
- Focal features e.g. aphasia, hemianopia
4
Q
How is encephalitis investigated?
A
- FBC, Blood smear, LFT, U+E, Cultures
- IgG, IgM antibodies
- Viral PCR
- CSF: elevated proteins, lymphocytes
- Imaging CT/MRI: Medial temporal/Inferior frontal changes but can be normal
5
Q
How is encephalitis managed?
A
- Oral aciclovir should be started ASAP
- Supportive measures
