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A Model for Epilepsy of Infectious Etiology using Theiler's Murine Encephalomyelitis Virus
Published on: June 23, 2022
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Case of eastern equine encephalitis presenting in winter.
Kairav J Shah1, Kartikeya Cherabuddi1
1Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA.
BMJ Case Reports
|May 12, 2016
Summary
Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) is a rare but severe mosquito-borne illness. Early diagnosis and supportive care are crucial for recovery, as demonstrated by this patient
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) is a rare, severe arboviral disease transmitted by mosquitoes.
- Neurological manifestations of EEE can be severe, including seizures and altered mental status.
- Prompt diagnosis is critical for effective management and patient outcomes.
Observation:
- A 50-year-old man presented with fever, altered mental status, seizures, and urinary incontinence.
- Cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed elevated protein and red blood cells, with negative cultures.
- Brain MRI revealed abnormalities in the ventricles, hippocampi, and cerebral hemispheres.
Findings:
- Initial low antibody titers for EEE (IgG 1:64, IgM <1:16) significantly increased in convalescent samples (IgG 1:1024, IgM 1:32).
- These serological changes confirmed a diagnosis of Eastern equine encephalitis.
- The patient received supportive care for his EEE infection.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering EEE in patients with compatible neurological symptoms, especially during mosquito season.
- Supportive care led to a good recovery, with only mild memory impairment.
- Further research into EEE pathogenesis and treatment is warranted to improve patient outcomes.
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