Encephalitis

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The goals of treatment are to provide supportive care and relieve symptoms. Antiviral medications, such as acyclovir (Zovirax) and foscarnet (Foscavir), may be prescribed for herpes encephalitis or other severe viral infections. Most of the time, however, no specific antiviral drugs are available to combat the infection.

Antibiotics may be prescribed when the infection is caused by some organisms, such as certain bacteria. Anti-seizure medications (such a phenytoin) are used to suppress seizures. On rare occasions, steroids, which are strong anti-inflammatory drugs (such as dexamethasone) are used to reduce brain swelling.

Sedatives may be needed to treat irritability or restlessness. Other medications, like acetaminophen, may be used for fever and headache.

Supportive care (rest, nutrition, fluids) allows the body to fight the infection. Reorientation and emotional support of confused or delirious persons may be helpful.

If brain function is severely affected, interventions like physical therapy and speech therapy may be necessary after the acute illness is controlled.

The outcome varies. Some cases are mild, short, and relatively harmless, followed by full recovery. Other cases are severe, and permanent impairment or death is possible.

The acute phase normally lasts for 1 to 2 weeks, with gradual or sudden disappearance of fever and neurologic symptoms. Neurologic symptoms may require many months before full recovery.

Permanent brain damage that affects memory, speech, vision, hearing, muscle control, or sensation may occur in people who survive severe cases of encephalitis.

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if sudden fever, neurologic changes, and other symptoms suggestive of encephalitis occur.

Review Date: 09/07/2006
Reviewed By: Kenneth Gross, M.D., Neurology, North Miami, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.