About Viral Encephalitis
Viral encephalitis is inflammation of the brain caused by a viral infection. In rare cases, it can be severe and potentially life-threatening but it is more typically a fairly mild illness. Because of this, it often goes unrecognized by the patient who may simply think they have a mild case of the flu. Many different viruses can cause encephalitis; the responsible pathogen is often difficult to isolate and identify.
Effects
In mild cases, viral encephalitis causes only minor symptoms. These usually include headache, lethargy and irritability. Sometimes no symptoms are present at all. Typically, a case of mild viral encephalitis lasts for only a few days and the affected person may not realize they are affected. Severe cases of viral encephalitis usually cause a high fever, severe headache, nausea, vomiting and stiff neck. Confusion, drowsiness and personality charges are occasionally present and are particularly concerning symptoms. Infants with viral encephalitis exhibit prolonged, high-pitched crying, a stiff neck and bulging fontanels.
Types
Primary virus encephalitis is a direct infection of the brain and spinal cord. This may occur as an isolated case or may be part of a local outbreak. Secondary viral encephalitis begins as a viral infection that affects other parts of the body, and then spreads to the brain. Secondary encephalitis may occur in patients who are ill with any of a number of different viral illnesses, including herpes, chicken pox, mononucleosis or West Nile disease.
Identification
Several methods are used to diagnose viral encephalitis; the test chosen is often based on the virus suspected to be responsible. A spinal tap may be performed to look for higher-than-normal amounts of white blood cells or blood in the cerebrospinal fluid; DNA testing can also be performed to look for the herpes virus. An abnormal EEG may suggest viral encephalitis, but many other conditions can cause similar results. CT and MRI scans are used to check for swelling of the brain, which is usually present in all forms of encephalitis. West Nile virus, a common cause of viral encephalitis, can be detected with blood tests.
Warning
Because viral encephalitis can become life-threatening rapidly, see your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms of the disease. If symptoms include severe headache, confusion, altered level of consciousness or stiff neck, emergency care may be necessary. Severe cases of encephalitis may lead to coma or death. Survivors sometimes experience brain damage similar to that caused by strokes and head injuries.
Prevention/Solution
Mosquitoes carry many diseases that can lead to viral encephalitis. This includes West Nile disease, St. Louis encephalitis and La Crosse encephalitis. Use an effective insect repellent when mosquitoes are active in your area and avoid going outdoors more than necessary during the early morning and evening hours. Treatment for viral encephalitis is quite difficult; antivirals such as Zovirax and Cytovene are sometimes effective if treatment begins very early in the course of the disease. Symptoms may be improved by using NSAIDs to reduce swelling and control pain; if seizures are present, anticonvulsants are usually administered.
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