Brain inflammation

Description

Encephalitis or brain inflammation, usually as a consequence of a viral infection. Viral encephalitis can be caused by herpes, west Nile virus, measles, chicken pox, rubella, and equine encephalitis virus. Rarely, encephalitis can be caused by cancer, bacterial, fungal or parasitic infections, by some medications or can occur as a reaction to a vaccine.

Symptoms

Headache, confusion, fever, vomiting, seizures, exhaustion, difficult moving.

Overview

Anamnesis is being taken and physical examination is being done. After CT scan of endocranium and magnetic resonance, lumbar punction is done in order to examine a cerebrospinal fluid on infection or inflammation (viral antigens, viral antibodies and / or culture are done).

Tests

Lumbar punction

Specialists

Neurology

Therapy

Vital functions of the patient are being maintaned. If there is a suspicion on herpes, antiviral medicines (acyclovir) are given. Antibiotics may be given in early stages of disease until bacterial infection is excluded.