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Encephalitis or encephalopathy during an influenza-A epidemic
Ivan Soldo1, Mario Duvnjak, Dubravka Lisnjić
1Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Osijek, Osijek, Croatia.
Collegium Antropologicum
|September 6, 2003
Summary
Influenza A (H1N1) can cause severe encephalitis in adults, leading to seizures, coma, and neurological deficits. Early onset of encephalitis after flu symptoms increases the risk of poor outcomes, including death.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- The 2000-2001 influenza A (H1N1) epidemic presented a potential neurological complication: encephalitis.
- Understanding the clinical spectrum and outcomes of H1N1-associated encephalitis is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes of encephalitis in female patients during the H1N1 epidemic.
- To identify potential risk factors and early indicators of severe H1N1-related encephalitis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series of six female patients diagnosed with encephalitis during the H1N1 epidemic.
- Clinical data collection included symptom onset, neurological manifestations, laboratory findings, and neuroimaging results.
Main Results:
- Encephalitis onset varied, with 50% developing symptoms 4-5 days post-influenza and 33.3% within 24-48 hours.
- Common symptoms included headache, fever, fatigue, consciousness disturbance, and seizures (50%).
- All patients showed abnormal EEG; 50% had cerebral edema on CT. Early onset was associated with hepatic enzyme elevation and leukopenia, with a 16.6% mortality rate and 33.3% permanent sequelae.
Conclusions:
- Influenza A (H1N1) can lead to severe encephalitis with significant morbidity and mortality.
- Early detection and monitoring of neurological symptoms during influenza epidemics are essential.
- Prompt recognition of early encephalitis indicators may aid in managing severe cases and improving patient outcomes.