Encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain tissue, is a serious neurological condition that requires prompt and comprehensive medical attention. Our Neurology Department is dedicated to providing expert care for patients with encephalitis, leveraging advanced diagnostic tools, innovative treatment strategies, and a multidisciplinary approach to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Encephalitis can be caused by infections, autoimmune responses, or other inflammatory processes, leading to a wide range of symptoms including headaches, fever, confusion, seizures, and neurological deficits. Early and accurate diagnosis is critical for effective management, and our team of skilled neurologists, infectious disease specialists, and critical care professionals work collaboratively to identify the underlying cause and tailor treatment plans to each patient’s unique needs.

If you have experienced unprovoked episodes of confusion, seizures, or other neurological symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical advice promptly.

Encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain, can be caused by various factors, which can broadly be categorised into infectious and non-infectious causes. Here are the possible causes in detail:

Infectious Causes:

1. Viruses:

• Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) The most common cause, particularly HSV-1.
• Arboviruses: Includes West Nile Virus and Japanese encephalitis virus, transmitted by mosquitoes and ticks.
  
• Enteroviruses: Such as poliovirus.
  
• Rabies Virus: Transmitted through animal bites.
• Measles, Mumps, and Rubella Viruses: Particularly in unvaccinated individuals.
  

2. Bacteria:

• Bacterial Meningitis Complications:Streptococcus pneumoniae and Neisseria meningitidis.
  
• Lyme Disease:Caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted by ticks.
  

3. Fungi and Parasites:

• Cryptococcus:Particularly affects immunocompromised individuals.
  
• Toxoplasma gondii:Can cause encephalitis in those with weakened immune systems.
  

Non-Infectious Causes:

1. Autoimmune Disorders:

• Autoimmune Encephalitis:Conditions like anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis where the immune system attacks the brain.
• Systemic Autoimmune Diseases: Such as lupus, affecting the brain.
  

2. Post-Infectious or Parainfectious Encephalitis:

• Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM):Follows viral infections or immunizations, involving inflammation and demyelination.

3. Toxic and Metabolic Encephalopathy:

• Toxins:Conditions Lead, carbon monoxide, or excessive alcohol exposure.
  
• Metabolic Disorders:Conditions like liver disease (hepatic encephalopathy) or severe electrolyte imbalances.
  

Understanding the underlying cause of encephalitis is crucial for effective treatment, as different causes require distinct therapeutic approaches. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to improving outcomes and minimising long-term neurological complications.

Encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain, can present with a wide range of symptoms that vary in severity depending on the underlying cause and the specific areas of the brain affected. Early recognition of these symptoms is crucial for prompt diagnosis and treatment.

1. Headaches: One of the most common initial symptoms of encephalitis is a severe headache, often accompanied by fever. This may be similar to the flu, making it initially challenging to distinguish from less serious conditions. As the condition progresses, more specific neurological symptoms can develop. These may include confusion, disorientation, and altered mental status, which can range from mild confusion to profound unresponsiveness or coma.

2. Seizures:Seizures are another significant symptom of encephalitis, occurring as the inflammation affects the brain’s electrical activity. These seizures can vary from focal seizures, which affect only one part of the body, to generalised seizures that involve the entire body. Muscle weakness, tremors, and coordination problems (ataxia) can also arise, making everyday tasks challenging.

3. Sensory Changes: In some cases, encephalitis can cause sensory changes, such as sensitivity to light (photophobia) or sound, and visual disturbances. Patients might also experience speech and hearing difficulties. Behavioural changes, such as irritability, hallucinations, and agitation, can be particularly distressing for both patients and their families.

4. Other Symptoms: In severe cases, encephalitis can lead to more alarming symptoms like loss of consciousness, paralysis, and significant memory problems. These symptoms require immediate medical attention, as they can indicate extensive brain involvement and a higher risk of complications.

Recognizing the diverse and sometimes subtle symptoms of encephalitis is essential for timely medical intervention.