Encephalitis (cont.)
IN THIS ARTICLE
Exams and Tests
Geographic location and seasonal occurrence can help identify the specific cause of encephalitis. Depending on your unique situation, the doctor may perform 1 or more of the following tests:
- A picture of the brain such as a CT scan or magnetic resonance imagining (MRI) is often done. MRI is the procedure of choice if herpes encephalitis is suspected.
- A DNA study called polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has greatly improved the diagnosis of herpes encephalitis.
- A reading of the electrical activity of the brain with an EEG can detect irregularities. Herpes encephalitis produces a characteristic EEG pattern.
- A lumbar puncture, also known as a spinal tap, may be necessary to isolate the virus. During this procedure, the doctor applies local numbing medication and then inserts a needle into your lower back to collect fluid from the space around the spinal column for analysis.
- The virus may also be isolated from tissue or blood.
- Brain biopsy is an option although it is rarely done and usually only if the other tests do not give an answer.
Next: Encephalitis Treatment »
Important Safety Information
Vimpat (lacosamide) is a medicine that is used with other medicines to treat partial onset seizures in patients 17 years of age and older with epilepsy. Vimpat is generally well-tolerated, but may not be for everyone. Ask your doctor if Vimpat is right for you. Antiepileptic drugs, including Vimpat, may cause suicidal thoughts or actions in a very small number of people, about 1 in 500. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have new or worsening symptoms of depression, any unusual changes in mood or behavior, or suicidal thoughts, behavior, or thoughts about self harm that you have never had before or may be worse than before. Please see additional patient information in the Medication Guide at the end of the full prescribing information. This information does not take the place of talking with your healthcare provider about your condition or your treatment. Please see additional Patient Safety Information
WebMD Daily
Get breaking medical news.
From WebMD
Healthy Resources
Featured Centers
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
Also on eMedicineHealth
Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine
Encephalitis »
Encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain parenchyma, presents as diffuse and/or focal neuropsychological dysfunction.
