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Powassan Meningoencephalitis: A Case Report Highlighting Diagnosis and Management
Jolanta J Pach1, Adeel S Zubair1, Christopher Traner1
1Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, USA.
Abstract:
Powassan virus (POWV), a rare flavivirus that may be transmitted by a tick bite, causes rare but severe cases of encephalitis, meningitis, and meningoencephalitis in humans. We present the case of a 62-year-old man with prior Lyme disease and reactive arthritis who presented to the hospital with symptoms of fever, headache, and fatigue. The patient developed rapid deterioration of mental status including profound expressive aphasia and required intubation and high-dose steroids. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) serologies were found to be positive for the POWV.
Insights
Powassan virus (POWV) infection can cause severe neurological illness. A case study highlights a patient with POWV encephalitis, emphasizing the need for timely diagnosis and treatment of this rare tick-borne disease.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- Powassan virus (POWV) is a rare tick-borne flavivirus.
- POWV infection can lead to severe neurological conditions like encephalitis and meningitis.
Observation:
- A 62-year-old man with a history of Lyme disease and reactive arthritis presented with fever, headache, and fatigue.
- The patient experienced rapid mental status decline, including severe expressive aphasia, necessitating intubation and high-dose steroids.
Findings:
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) serologies confirmed the presence of POWV.
- This case illustrates a severe presentation of POWV encephalitis.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis of POWV is crucial for prompt management.
- Understanding POWV's neurological impact is vital for public health.
- Tick-bite prevention remains a key strategy against POWV transmission.
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