Diagnosis of encephalitis

Diagnostics in infectious encephalitis

Prompt diagnosis reduces mortality and improves the outcomes. It is important that doctors carry out various investigations to establish the correct diagnosis. Read more

Neuroimaging

Neuroimaging is imaging of the brain. There are various types of brain imaging (scans) that can be used to help diagnose encephalitis. Read more

This animation describes the journey of a sample (blood and/cerebrospinal fluid) which helps confirm a diagnosis of infectious encephalitis from the point of collecting the sample from the patient to analysing the results by the treating physician. Read more

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The Encephalitis Society and research

A brief look at how the Encephalitis Society has supported and funded research
Support Research

All donations will be doubled - and support research - during Encephalitis Research Month in June
Encephalitis 2023 Programme

Full Conference Programme to be announced in September. Keynote and guest speakers and final running order for both days confirmed.
Euroimmun UK

NMDAR antibody encephalitis

NMDAR antibody encephalitis is an autoimmune disease that causes psychiatric features, confusion, memory loss and seizures followed by a movement disorder, loss of consciousness and changes in blood pressure, heart rate and temperature.
Herpes Simplex virus encephalitis

Herpes simplex encephalitis is a type of infectious encephalitis which happens when herpes simplex virus (HSV) enters the brain. Usually, it begins with ‘flu-like’ symptoms followed by neurological deterioration, which may include personality and behavioural changes, seizures, weakness and difficulties in communication.
What is encephalitis?

Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain caused by an infection or through the immune system attacking the brain in error.
Guidelines for recovery

No two people with encephalitis have the same outcomes. People recover at different paces. Recovery can be helped by having lots of rest, good nutrition, helpful social network and support from professionals.
Limbic encephalitis

The term ‘limbic encephalitis’ (LE) describes the condition when limbic areas of the brain are inflamed (swollen) and consequently not functioning properly. Most forms of LE fall into two main categories: infectious encephalitis and autoimmune encephalitis.
Death from encephalitis

Encephalitis is a serious neurological condition and unfortunately, despite improvements in specific and more supportive treatments such as excellent intensive care management, encephalitis still has a high mortality (death) rate.
West Nile encephalitis

West Nile encephalitis is a type of infectious encephalitis caused by West Nile virus. People usually become infected after being bitten by a mosquito, which has fed on an infected bird.
Encephalitis: after-effects, recovery and rehabilitation

This booklet provides key information about the type of issues that people may have after encephalitis, why rehabilitation/support from professionals and families are important and what options for self-help are available.
Emotional and behavioural changes

Following encephalitis, some people may experience emotional and behavioural changes including low mood, increased anxiety, depression, mood swings, frustration, aggression, impulsivity, disinhibition, and/or poor emotional regulation.
Get support

Our Support Service is here to help you with any questions about encephalitis, recovery and rehabilitation or emotional support.