Encephalitis

Question 1

What is encephalitis?

Answer 1

An acute inflammation of the brain resulting from infective or non-infective causes.

Question 2

What is the most common cause of encephalitis?

Answer 2

Viral infection (HSV, ZVZ)

Question 3

Which virus is commonly associated with encephalitis in children and in neonates?

Answer 3

Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV1) - children (from coldsores)
Herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV2) - neonates (from genital herpes)

Question 4

Name a virus that can cause encephalitis.

Answer 4

• Varicella zoster virus (VZV)
• Enterovirus
• Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Question 5

What is a common demyelinating disorder associated with encephalitis?

Answer 5

Multiple sclerosis.

Question 6

List the core clinical features of encephalitis.

Answer 6

• Altered consciousness
• Headache
• Fever

Question 7

What additional symptoms may occur with encephalitis?

Answer 7

• Altered cognition
• Behaviour changes
• Acute onset focal neurological symptoms
• Acute onset of focal seizures

Question 8

What is the primary investigation method for encephalitis?

Answer 8

Lumbar puncture.

Question 9

When is a CT scan indicated in encephalitis?

Answer 9

If lumbar puncture is contraindicated (GCS <9, haemodynamically unstable, active seizures or post-ictal).

Question 10

What imaging study is performed after a lumbar puncture in encephalitis?

Answer 10

MRI.

Question 11

What is a common treatment for viral encephalitis?

Answer 11

IV antivirals - aciclovir and ganciclovir

Question 12

What are some potential complications of encephalitis?

Answer 12

• Lasting fatigue
• Prolonged recovery
• Change in mood, personality, behaviours
• Change to memory and cognition
• Learning disability
• Headaches
• Chronic pain
• Movement disorders
• Sensory disturbance
• Seizures
• Hormonal imbalances