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Acute encephalitis of viral origin
Abstract:
75 patients with acute encephalitis of confirmed or suggestive viral or virus-like etiology showed a predominance of herpes simplex virus (HSV) as an etiological agent (13.3-32.0%) in all age groups without seasonal variation and increasing in number during years. Mumps, occurring mainly in female patients, was next in order and thereafter coxsackievirus B, varicella-zoster, and adenoviruses, followed by multiple coincident infections, and a large number of occasional agents. HSV seems to have displaced tick-borne encephalitis virus as the major cause of acute encephalitis in Finland. Pregnancy appeared to increase susceptibility to HSV encephalitis. The outcome was associated with the etiological agent in the first hand, HSV and nonviral microbes appeared unfavourable, but also with the clinical symptomatology, particularly altered consciousness, mental symptoms and focal neurological signs. The need for exact and rapid diagnosis in all cases of acute encephalitis is underlined in view of the possibility of specific therapy.
Insights
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is now the leading cause of acute encephalitis in Finland, affecting all ages. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment, especially in pregnant individuals.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Acute encephalitis poses a significant neurological challenge.
- Identifying the etiological agent is critical for patient management and prognosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the etiological agents of acute encephalitis in a Finnish cohort.
- To determine trends in causative agents and factors influencing outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 75 patients diagnosed with acute encephalitis.
- Identification of viral and virus-like etiological agents through laboratory diagnostics.
Main Results:
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) was the predominant etiological agent (13.3-32.0%), surpassing tick-borne encephalitis virus.
- Mumps, coxsackievirus B, varicella-zoster, and adenoviruses were also identified.
- Pregnancy was associated with increased susceptibility to HSV encephalitis.
- Outcomes were linked to the etiological agent (HSV and nonviral microbes unfavorable) and clinical presentation (altered consciousness, mental symptoms, focal neurological signs).
Conclusions:
- HSV has emerged as the primary cause of acute encephalitis in Finland.
- Prompt and accurate diagnosis is essential for initiating specific therapies and improving patient outcomes.