- This page has been taken from Encephalitis – a guide, which is available from our
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The brain could be regarded as being in three parts. The brain stem is the most
primitive part and supports the most basic functions of breathing, blood circulation
and digestion. It is also involved in some of the basic aspects of behaviour, mating,
aggression and anger. It sits above the spinal cord at the base of the rest of the
brain.
Probably the greatest practical challenge facing the physician is the maintenance
of vital functions in the acute stage of brainstem encephalitis. With the present
capacity of physiologic support and close observation offered by intensive care
units, such patients may be tided over the acute phase. Many cases of apparently
devastating brainstem encephalitis recover significantly if supported through the
acute phase. Yet others will survive with devastating disability remaining in a
"locked-in" state.
Long term damage to any area of the brainstem will result in problems that are associated
with that area. Examples include problems with temperature control, digestion and
anger management.
The second and third parts of the Brain
Wrapped around this basic brain is the "limbic brain" or intermediate
brain. It includes the hippocampus, thalamus, hypothalamus and amygdale which are
involved in memory an much of the behaviour related to sex, hormones, food, the
perception of pleasure and competition with others. The limbic brain is the seat
of higher emotions including the protection of the young and feelings such as love,
sadness and jealousy.
The third and major part of the brain is the neocortex, the rational brain. The
neocortical brain provides logic and thought, it is the seat of processes such as
speaking, planning and writing.
Last modified: March 2008