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Encephalitis (Neurology)

Inflammation of brain parenchyma causing altered consciousness, focal deficits, and seizures.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

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 (Neurology)?

Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain parenchyma resulting from infectious agents (most commonly viruses such as herpes simplex, varicella zoster, enteroviruses), autoimmune mechanisms (anti-NMDA receptor, anti-LGI1, paraneoplastic), or post-infectious processes.

Patients present with acute or subacute onset of fever, headache, altered mental status, seizures, focal neurologic deficits, and behavioral changes. CSF analysis, neuroimaging (MRI), EEG, and specific viral PCR or autoantibody panels are diagnostic cornerstones.

Treatment requires urgent empirical acyclovir for HSV encephalitis, supportive ICU care, anticonvulsants, and immunotherapy (corticosteroids, IVIG, plasmapheresis, rituximab) for autoimmune forms. Early recognition and treatment significantly impact survival and neurologic outcome.

Symptoms

Fever and headache
Altered consciousness
Seizures (often focal)
Behavioral and personality changes
Focal neurologic deficits
Cranial nerve palsies
Movement disorders (dyskinesias in anti-NMDA)

Risk Factors

Recent viral infection
Immunocompromised state
Travel to endemic regions (arboviruses)
Tick or mosquito exposure
Underlying malignancy (paraneoplastic)
Recent vaccination (rare)
Autoimmune diatheses

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Acute fever with confusion or seizures
  • Sudden behavioral changes with fever
  • New focal neurologic deficit with fever
  • Suspected herpes encephalitis
  • Unexplained encephalopathy
  • Movement disorder with cognitive decline

Treatment Methods

01
Empirical IV acyclovir until HSV ruled out
02
Specific antiviral or antibiotic therapy
03
Anticonvulsants for seizures
04
Immunotherapy for autoimmune encephalitis
05
ICU monitoring and supportive care
06
Tumor screening for paraneoplastic forms
07
Rehabilitation and cognitive recovery support

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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Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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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.