Tick borne encephalitis (brain infection)

Description A human viral infection caused by the virus, tick-borne encephalitis v...

Description

A human viral infection caused by the virus, tick-borne encephalitis virus. The first phase of infection is a flu-like illness with headache, fever and muscle aches. Most people recover without any other symptoms. About one-third of people will later develop complications including meningitis (inflammation of the membrane covering the brain), encephalitis (inflammation within the brain) and/or myelitis (inflammation of the spinal cord). Symptoms of this phase include a new headache, confusion and/or numbness and weakness in the legs. Patients become infected with the virus during a tick bite.

Symptoms

Fever, malaise, anorexia, muscle aches, and headache in the initial phase. Later they can develop a more severe headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, confusion, numbness and weakness in the extremities, which can progress to paralysis.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests and a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) may be performed to look for the antibody against the virus. This can confirm the diagnosis.

Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Urinalysis (UA)

Other Specific Tests: Lumbar puncture (spinal tap)

Specialists:
Infectious Disease Medicine, Pediatric Infectious Disease Medicine

Treatment

Symptomatic therapy is given since there is no specific cure. Treatment for complications may include: intensive care hospitalization, anti-seizure medications, intravenous fluids, anti-nausea medications, and mechanical ventilation.