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Encephalitis

Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain tissue; its causes, symptoms, and treatment.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Nöroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Encephalitis?

Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain tissue. Viruses are the most common cause; herpes simplex virus (HSV) is the most important agent in acute viral encephalitis. In addition, enteroviruses, arboviruses (West Nile virus, Japanese encephalitis virus), and other viruses can also cause encephalitis.

Autoimmune encephalitis occurs when the immune system produces antibodies against brain proteins. Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis is the most common type of this group and is more common in young women. Because it can also start with psychiatric symptoms, diagnosis can be difficult.

Compared to meningitis, encephalitis directly affects brain functions more: altered consciousness, behavioral disorders, and seizures are prominent. Early initiation of antiviral or immunosuppressive therapy reduces neurological damage.

Symptoms

High fever and severe headache
Altered consciousness, confusion, or drowsiness
Seizures
Personality and behavioral changes
Speech and memory disorders
Weakness in the arm or leg
Sensitivity to light and neck stiffness

Risk Factors

Immune system suppression
Being unvaccinated (for preventable causes such as mumps, measles)
Mosquito or tick bite (arboviral encephalitis)
Animal bite (rabies)
Autoimmune predisposition
Elderly or infancy period

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Call emergency immediately if fever + altered consciousness are seen together
  • With seizure occurrence and accompanying high fever
  • Rapidly developing behavioral changes and memory impairment
  • Arm-leg weakness, speech disorder together with fever

Treatment Methods

01
Emergency intravenous acyclovir in HSV encephalitis
02
Corticosteroid, IVIG, or plasmapheresis in autoimmune encephalitis
03
Antiepileptic drugs for seizure control
04
Intensive care monitoring and supportive therapies
05
Long-term rehabilitation (cognitive and physical)
06
Treatment of the underlying tumor (if any) in autoimmune encephalitis

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Nöroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.