Encephalitis Cases
Exactly what is Encephalitis?
Encephalitis is the word used to describe inflammation of the brain. This condition can cause problems with the brain and spinal cord function. The inflammation causes the brain to swell, which leads to changes in the person's neurologic condition, including mental confusion and seizures. Some cases are mild, short and relatively benign and patients have full recovery. Other cases are severe. The acute phase of encephalitis may last for several weeks, with gradual or sudden resolution of fever and neurological symptoms. Neurological symptoms may require months, and often years before full recovery. With early diagnosis and prompt treatment, most patients recover. There are many types of encephalitis, most of which are caused by viral infection. It can occur at any age and is usually the result of a viral infection. There are two main types of encephalitis:1. Acute viral encephalitis (AVE) a direct viral attack on the brain. 2. Post Infectious Encephalitis (PIE) an autoimmune condition whereby the body's immune system attacks the brain following a viral infection elsewhere in the body. |
