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[Mumps encephalitis in adulthood]
Abstract:
Mumps virus is one of the most common causes of viral meningitis. Although brain involvement has been observed in a low proportion of children with mumps meningitis, a pure form of mumps encephalitis is extremely uncommon in the adult. A 23 year-old man presented with a rapidly evolving syndrome of cephalalgia , vomiting, mutism, disorders of gait, somnolence and dystonic movements. The electroencephalogram showed a diffusely slowed background activity. The CSF contained no cells, but the total protein concentration was elevated. The patient recovered without sequelae, but severe intellectual and motor disturbances persisted during more than a month. Serological studies showed an increase of blood IgM mumps-specific antibodies. We conclude that mumps encephalitis, although infrequent, should be considered among viral diseases that mimic herpes simplex encephalitis in the adulthood.
Insights
Mumps encephalitis is rare in adults, presenting with severe neurological symptoms. This case highlights its potential to mimic other serious brain infections, emphasizing the need for broader diagnostic considerations.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- Mumps virus commonly causes viral meningitis.
- Mumps encephalitis is rare in adults, unlike in children.
- Distinguishing mumps encephalitis from other viral encephalitides is clinically important.
Observation:
- A 23-year-old man presented with acute neurological decline, including severe headache, vomiting, mutism, gait disturbance, somnolence, and dystonic movements.
- Electroencephalogram revealed diffuse slowing, and cerebrospinal fluid showed elevated protein without cells.
- The patient experienced prolonged intellectual and motor deficits despite initial recovery.
Findings:
- Serological tests confirmed elevated IgM mumps-specific antibodies, indicating acute mumps infection.
- The clinical presentation and CSF findings were consistent with encephalitis.
- Recovery was slow, with persistent neurological sequelae.
Implications:
- Mumps encephalitis should be considered in adult cases of viral encephalitis, particularly those mimicking herpes simplex encephalitis.
- Early diagnosis and consideration of less common viral causes are crucial for appropriate patient management.
- This case underscores the potential for mumps virus to cause severe neurological disease in adults.