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A Murine Model of Dengue Virus-induced Acute Viral Encephalitis-like Disease
Published on: April 28, 2019
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.
Abstract:
Encephalitis is caused by multiple organisms, but rarely by the hepatitis A virus. A 27-year-old man visited our hospital because of fever, altered consciousness, and seizures. On physical exam, a stuporous mentality and neck stiffness were found. On laboratory exam, elevated liver enzymes and cerebrospinal fluid abnormalities, including pleocytosis and elevated protein levels were observed. The hepatitis A virus (HAV) IgM antibody was also detected. We conclude that these findings were compatible with encephalitis associated with HAV and discuss the pathomechanisms.
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.
Related Concept Videos
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Encephalitis ll: Pathophysiology
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Viral Hepatitis I: Introduction
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