Encephalitis

Encephalitis is an acute inflammation of brain parenchyma, typically due to viral infection or autoimmune mechanisms. Clinical manifestations include fever, headache, altered consciousness, seizures, and focal neurological deficits. Pathophysiology involves direct neuronal injury and secondary immune-mediated inflammation. Diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation, neuroimaging, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and pathogen-specific testing. Management includes antiviral or immunomodulatory therapy, supportive care, and management of complications; outcomes depend on etiology and timeliness of treatment.