Chikungunya encephalitis: A case report

Abstract

Rationale: Transmitted to humans via the Aedes mosquito, Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is associated with multi-system complications, sometimes collectively referred to as “atypical features.” However, a disorder of the nervous system appears to be the most common severe complication of CHIKV infection. Patient’s Concern: A seventy-five-year-old patient from India presented to the hospital with fever, chills, rigors, and multiple joint pains for which he was worked up. Diagnosis: CHIKV encephalitis. Interventions: The patient was treated initially on supportive therapy with antipyretics, intravenous fluids; however, during his hospital stay, the patient had altered sensorium during which he was managed in the intensive care unit; required mechanical ventilation. Outcomes: The patient sccumbed to his illness. Lessons: Treating clinicians should keep CHIKV disease in the differential diagnosis in cases of febrile exanthems associated with disabling arthritis, especially in a CHIKV-endemic country like India.