Characterising a cohort of encephalitis patients: An experience from a South East London trust

Abstract

Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain parenchyma; the aetiology is commonly infectious, autoimmune or unknown. The estimated incidence rate in England is 2–8 cases/100,000/year. Patients present with symptoms of reduced consciousness, seizures, psychiatric symptoms or cognitive impairment. To aid the diagnostic process neuroimaging, lumbar puncture, EEG and antibodies targeting surface or intraneuclear antigens are commonly used. Prompt treatment within 48 hours reduces the mortality and chronic physical and neuropsychological sequelae.