Encephalitis associated with acute hepatitis a

Jung-Ju Lee1, Kyusik Kang1, Jong-Moo Park1

  • 1Department of Neurology, Eulji General Hospital, Eulji University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.

Insights

Hepatitis A virus (HAV) can cause encephalitis, a rare but serious brain inflammation. This case study details a patient with fever, seizures, and altered consciousness due to HAV infection.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Hepatology

Background:

  • Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain, typically caused by viruses.
  • Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is a common cause of hepatitis but an extremely rare cause of encephalitis.

Observation:

  • A 27-year-old male presented with fever, altered consciousness, and seizures.
  • Physical examination revealed stupor and neck stiffness.
  • Laboratory tests showed elevated liver enzymes, cerebrospinal fluid abnormalities (pleocytosis, elevated protein), and positive HAV IgM antibodies.

Findings:

  • The clinical presentation and laboratory results were consistent with encephalitis.
  • The presence of HAV IgM antibodies indicated a recent Hepatitis A infection.
  • This case supports a rare association between Hepatitis A virus and encephalitis.

Implications:

  • Highlights the potential for Hepatitis A virus to cause central nervous system infections.
  • Suggests considering HAV in the differential diagnosis of encephalitis, especially in patients with concurrent liver enzyme abnormalities.
  • Further research into the pathomechanisms of HAV-induced encephalitis is warranted.

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