How is herpes encephalitis transmitted?
Encephalitis is caused by the herpes simplex virus. Most are caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV1), the virus that also causes cold sores. The disease may also be caused by herpes virus type 2 (HSV2). This virus can be spread by sexual contact or from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth.
How common is encephalitis from herpes?
Herpes simplex encephalitis usually occurs during early childhood or adulthood. It affects males and females in equal numbers. The disorder is the most common form of acute encephalitis in the United States with approximately 2,000 cases occurring per year.
Can herpes encephalitis be cured?
Herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE) is a rare but severe condition. In the absence of treatment, prognosis is extremely poor, with a mortality rate of about 70 % [1].
What is the prognosis of encephalitis?
However, despite improvements in diagnosis and treatment, encephalitis still leads to death in about 10% of patients. Survivors of severe cases of encephalitis can be left with permanent problems such as fatigue, irritability, impaired concentration, seizures, hearing loss, memory loss and blindness.
How is encephalitis diagnosed and treated?
Samples of blood, urine or excretions from the back of the throat can be tested for viruses or other infectious agents. Electroencephalogram (EEG). Electrodes affixed to your scalp record the brain’s electrical activity. Certain abnormal patterns may indicate a diagnosis of encephalitis.
Can Encephalitis be treated with antibiotics?
If encephalitis is caused by a bacterial infection, it can be treated with intravenous antibiotics. Treatment for herpes-related encephalitis includes supportive care, as well as intravenous antiviral therapy with a drug such as acyclovir.
Will CT scan show encephalitis?
A scan of the brain can help show whether you have encephalitis or another problem such as a stroke, brain tumour or brain aneurysm (a swelling in an artery). The 2 main types of scan used are: a CT scan. an MRI scan.
What causes encephalitis How does it enter the body?
Encephalitis can develop as a result of a direct infection to the brain by a virus, bacterium, or fungus, or when the immune system responds to a previous infection; the immune system mistakenly attacks brain tissue.