Zika Virus Causing Encephalomyelitis Associated With Immunoactivation.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Virology
• Immunology

Background:

• Brazil has faced a significant Zika virus (ZIKV) outbreak.
• Increased incidence of congenital malformations and neurological issues have been reported.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a case of ZIKV infection presenting as encephalomyelitis in an adult.
• To document the longitudinal immune response and neurological changes during ZIKV infection.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 26-year-old Brazilian man with ZIKV infection.
• Brain and spinal cord imaging (T2 and FLAIR) to identify lesions.
• Cerebrospinal fluid analysis for cytokine levels (IL-6, IL-8).

Main Results:

• The patient was diagnosed with encephalomyelitis following ZIKV infection.
• Hyperintense lesions were observed in the brain and spinal cord.
• Elevated levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and IL-8 were found in cerebrospinal fluid during the acute phase.

Conclusions:

• ZIKV infection can cause encephalomyelitis in adults.
• The findings suggest significant immune activation during the acute phase of ZIKV infection, correlating with neurological impairment.
• This is the first longitudinal report documenting ZIKV-induced encephalomyelitis and associated immune activation.