Meningitis & Encephalitis Flashcards
1
Q
How does encephalitis classically present?
A
- very young/old
- altered mental status (bizarre behaviour)
- generalised photophobic headache, N+V, fever, early seizures
2
Q
What is the most common cause of encephalitis?
A
HSV1
3
Q
Which viruses can cause encephalitis?
A
- HSV 1&2
- CMV
- EBV
- VZV
- HIV
- arboviruses
4
Q
Can meningitis lead to encephalitis?
A
Yes. This is called meningoencephalitis oft caused by falciparum malaria, bacteria, Lyme disease, mycoplasma
5
Q
Name a cause of autoimmune encephalitis
A
NMDA-receptor-abd
6
Q
What can cause encephalopathy?
A
- hypoglycaemia
- hepatic encephalopathy (NH4+)
- DKA
- drugs
- uraemia
- SLE
- hypoxia
- Beri-Beri
7
Q
How is suspected encephalitis investigated?
A
- routine bloods
- blood cultures & viral PCR
- CSF tests, viral PCR
? Malaria blood films - CNS imaging (temporal lobe lesions, BL multifocal haemorrhage)
8
Q
How is encephalitis treated?
A
Broad spectrum abx:
- 2g IV ceftriaxone bd
- 10mg/kg aciclovir tds (2w)
Anticonvulsants (phenytoin)
