About Us | Privacy | Site Map
Font Size
A
A
A

Encephalitis (cont.)

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 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 »

Share | | | | | More


WebMD Daily

Get breaking medical news.

Are You Depressed? Take the Quiz



Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine

Encephalitis »

Encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain parenchyma, presents as diffuse and/or focal neuropsychological dysfunction.

Read More on eMedicine »

Medical Dictionary