[Cerebral manifestations of influenza A (H1N1)v]

Pia Sønderby Christensen1, Birgitte Bang Pedersen, Helga Gulisano

  • 1Børneafdelingen, Århus Universitets hospital, Aalborg Sygehus, Denmark. pias@dadlnet.dk

Ugeskrift for Laeger
|December 2, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Influenza A (H1N1)v can cause severe neurological issues, including cerebral edema and encephalitis. Prompt medical intervention, such as decompressive craniectomy, may be crucial for patient recovery.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Critical Care Medicine

Background:

  • Influenza A (H1N1)v, a novel influenza A virus, emerged in 2009.
  • Neurological complications associated with influenza are rare but can be severe.

Observation:

  • Two cases of cerebral manifestations in patients with influenza A (H1N1)v infection are presented.
  • Case 1: A 13-year-old boy with severe cerebral edema and increased intracranial pressure, treated with decompressive craniectomy.
  • Case 2: A 25-year-old man with encephalopathy and convulsions, diagnosed with encephalitis via MRI.

Findings:

  • Influenza A (H1N1)v infection can lead to serious neurological complications.
  • Decompressive craniectomy was effective in managing severe cerebral edema.
  • Complete recovery was observed in both patients following appropriate medical and surgical interventions.

Implications:

  • Highlights the potential for life-threatening neurological sequelae of influenza A (H1N1)v.
  • Emphasizes the importance of recognizing and managing neurological complications in influenza patients.
  • Suggests that aggressive management strategies may improve outcomes in severe cases.

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