EncephalitisMedical Author:
Todd Mundy, MD
Coauthor:
Mai Kim Lai, MD
Coauthor:
Steven H Silber, DO, FACEP
Medical Editor:
Michael D Burg, MD
Medical Editor:
Francisco Talavera, PharmD, PhD
Medical Editor:
James S Cohen, MD
Encephalitis OverviewEncephalitis is an acute infection and inflammation of the brain itself. This is in contrast to meningitis, which is an inflammation of the layers covering the brain. Encephalitis is generally a viral illness. Viruses such as those responsible for causing cold sores, mumps, measles, and chickenpox can also cause encephalitis. A certain family of viruses, the Arboviruses are spread by insects such as mosquitoes and ticks. The equine (meaning horse), West Nile, Japanese, La Crosse, and St. Louis encephalitis viruses are all mosquito-borne. Although viruses are the most common source of infection, bacteria, fungi, and parasites can also be responsible. The illness resembles the flu and usually lasts for 2-3 weeks. It can vary from mild to life-threatening, and even cause death. Most people with a mild case can recover fully. Those with a more severe case can recover although they may have damage to their nervous system. This damage can be permanent.
Viewer Comments & ReviewsEncephalitis - SymptomsThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:What symptoms did you experience with your encephalitis? |
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Encephalitis
Chickenpox Overview
Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a highly contagious and self-limited infection that most commonly affects children between 5-10 years of age. The disease has a worldwide distribution and is reported throughout the year in regions of temperate climate. The peak incidence is generally during the months of March through May. Lifelong immunity for chickenpox generally follows the disease. If the patient's immune system does not totally clear the body of the virus, it may retreat to skin sensory nerve cell bodies where it is protected from the patient's immune system. The disease shingles (also known as "zoster") represents release of these viruses down the length of the skin nerve fiber and produces a characteristic painful rash. Shingles is most commonly a disease of adults.
Chickenpox Causes
The varicella-zoster virus (VZV) causes chickenpox. The disease is highly
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Encephalitis »
Encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain parenchyma, presents as diffuse and/or focal neuropsychological dysfunction.
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