University:
Swansea University
Course:
PM-139 | Human Physiology 1
Academic year:

2023
Views:

147

Pages:

4
Author:

Amal J.

ENCEPHALITIS Definition: Encephalitis is an acute inflammation of the brain caused mainly by viral infection. Causes: Exact causes are unknown. More commonly caused by viral infection (HSV, enterovirus & rabies virus, etc). Bacterial infection may also be a cause. Types: Primary encephalitis: Occurs when virus or other infections agents directly infect the brain. May be concentrated in one area or widespread. May be due to reactivation of virus that had been inactive after a previous illness. Secondary encephalitis: Due to faulty immune system reaction occurs 2 to 3 weeks after initial infection. Symptoms: - mild flu-like symptoms - headache - fever - ache in muscles or joints - fatigue or weakness Other symptoms: - confusion, agitation, or hallucinatory seizures - loss of sensation in certain force or body - muscle weakness - double vision - problems with speech or hearing - loss of consiousness Risk factors: * bulging of soft spots at skull * nausea & vomiting: * body stiffness * inconsolable, crying * poor feeding * irritability * age * weak immune response * geographic changes Complication: - severe causes - coma or death - memory problem - paralysis - hearing or vision defects - speech impairment - lack of muscle coordination - personality changes Diagnosis: - Brain imaging - swelling of brain or symptoms of tumor - Spiral tap (lumbar puncture) infection & inflammation of brain - EEG - abnormal patterns in electrical activity of brain Treatment: → mild cases: - bed rest - plenty of fluids - anti-inflammatory drugs - antiviral drugs (e.g. acyclovir, ganciclovir) → severe cases: - breathing assistance - IV fluids - anticonvulsant medication (phenytoin) → additional therapy: - physiotherapy/ occupational therapy - speech therapy - psychotherapy Prevention: - avoid exposure - good hygiene - vaccination - staying protected from mosquitoes