Encephalitis Overview and Classification

Study Notes

Encephalitis is brain inflammation, often caused by viral infection.
It's potentially life-threatening and can lead to permanent brain damage or death.

Primary Encephalitis: Caused by viruses attacking the central nervous system (CNS).
- Two types:
  - Neurotrophic viruses (type A) attack nerve cells.
  - Pantropic viruses (type B) attack neurons.
Secondary Encephalitis: Caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites attacking brain tissue.

Prognosis varies based on patient age (very young and very old are at higher risk) and the specific causative virus.

When encephalitis occurs alongside meningitis, it's called meningoencephalitis.
This can result from a direct infection or a consequence of a previous condition.

Common symptoms: headache, confusion, fever, drowsiness, fatigue, seizures/convulsions, tremors, stroke, hallucinations, and memory problems
Cranial nerve palsies, ataxia, dysarthria, and dysphasia are also potential symptoms.

Possible complications: impairment in intelligence, mood/behavior changes, residual neurological deficits, extrapyramidal symptoms, hyponatremia, encephalopathy, mononeuropathy, and flaccid paralysis.

Bed rest: Crucial for recovery.
Plenty of fluids: Essential for hydration.
Anti-inflammatory medications: Like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen, to relieve headaches and fever.

Supportive care: Breathing assistance, vigilant monitoring of breathing and heart function, and intravenous fluids to maintain hydration and electrolyte balance.
Anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., corticosteroids): Reduce swelling and pressure in the skull.
Anticonvulsant medications (e.g., phenytoin): Prevent or stop seizures.

Holistic approach addressing physical, cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and medical needs of patients and families.
Services often include:
- Physical therapy: Improving strength, flexibility, balance, motor coordination, and mobility.
- Occupational therapy: Developing daily living skills and using adaptive tools.
- Speech therapy: Learning to speak again.
- Psychotherapy: Developing coping strategies and addressing mood or personality disorders.