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Diagnosis and treatment of west nile infections

Sandra Abadie Kemmerly1

  • 1Section on Infectious Diseases, Ochsner Clinic and Alton Ochsner Medical Foundation, New Orleans, LA.

Ochsner Journal
|July 19, 2011
PubMed

Insights

West Nile Virus (WNV) can cause serious neurological illness, particularly in older adults. Early diagnosis via IgM antibody testing and supportive care are crucial for managing WNV infections.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • West Nile Virus (WNV) is a significant public health concern, often presenting with neurological symptoms.
  • WNV infections can lead to viral meningitis, encephalitis, and flaccid paralysis, with severe illness more prevalent in the elderly.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the importance of considering WNV in differential diagnoses for neurological conditions.
  • To outline diagnostic, treatment, and prevention strategies for WNV.

Main Methods:

  • Diagnostic testing focuses on identifying the IgM antibody against WNV in serum and cerebrospinal fluid.
  • Clinical presentation and epidemiological data inform diagnosis and management.

Main Results:

  • Severe neuroinvasive disease occurs in approximately 1 in 150 WNV infections.
  • No specific antiviral agents have proven effective in clinical trials.

Conclusions:

  • WNV should be included in the differential diagnosis for patients with symptoms of viral meningitis, encephalitis, or flaccid paralysis.
  • Supportive treatment is the mainstay for WNV infections.
  • Prevention strategies include mosquito control and personal protection measures.

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