Viral Encephalitis in Hong Kong - A Hospital-Based Study (P03.255)

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Objective: To study the clinical, laboratory & radiological characteristics of viral encephalitis in Hong Kong (HK), especially focusing on poor prognostic factors. Background Viral encephalitis is an important neurological infection with significant morbidity & mortality. The causative agents, clinico-radiological features & prognostic factors of viral encephalitis has not been reviewed in our locality previously. Design/Methods: We retrospectively studied the clinical features of viral encephalitis patients managed at a hospital in HK during 2000-2010. Viral encephalitis was defined as fever & 1) acute signs of cerebral involvement e.g. altered consciousness or personality and/or 2) seizures and/or 3) focal neurological signs. Fungal & bacteriological latex/cultures were negative. Patients with a poor prognosis was defined as death, Rankin test score≥2 or Modified Barthel Index≤60 at 6months after admission. Results: A total of 43 patients with viral encephalitis were identified. The mean age was 52yrs (range 14-80yrs) with 49% males. The etiologies of viral encephalitis were identified in 33% of cases (herpes simplex virus 26%, varicella zoster virus 5% & Japanese B virus 2%). Majority of cases (44%) occurred during the summer period (June-August). All patients received intravenous acyclovir (mean duration of 15days) with 68% of patients receiving antiviral treatment within the first day of admission. 21% of patients had a poor prognosis at 6months after admission. Patients of older age, with known history of hypertension, presenting with focal neurological signs & requiring prolonged hospitalization were associated with poor prognosis (P Conclusions: Herpes simplex virus is the most common cause of viral encephalitis in HK. 22% of patients are associated with a poor outcome & presence of a hemorrhagic lesion on cranial MRI is an independent poor prognostic indicator. Disclosure: Dr. Lau has nothing to disclose. Dr. Tse has nothing to disclose. Dr. Chang has nothing to disclose. Dr. Pang has nothing to disclose. Dr. Lee has nothing to disclose. Dr. Ho has nothing to disclose. Dr. Chan has nothing to disclose.