Encephalitis Flashcards
1
Q
Define encephalitis
A
Inflammation of the brain parenchyma -> leading to altered mental status, fever and seizures.
2
Q
What is the key epidemiology of encephalitis?
A
Bimodal distribution - infants and above 65yrs
3
Q
What is the key aetiology of encephalitis?
A
Viral - most common HSV type -1
Other - HSV-2, enterovirus, cytomegalovirus, EBV, VZV
Bacterial - bacterial pathogens like meningitis, Lyme disease, mycoplasma
Parasitic - malaria or toxoplasmosis
4
Q
What is the most common pathogen causing encephalitis?
A
Herpes simplex virus
5
Q
What are the key features of encephalitis?
A
Key feature = altered mental status
Fever
Flu-like prodromal illness
Seizures
Focal neurological deficits
Headaches
Behavioural changes
Meningismus
6
Q
A
