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Management of Infective Encephalitis in Critical Care

Dr Lorraine Spencer1†

1Neuroanaesthesia Clinical Fellow, The Walton Centre, Liverpool, UK

Edited by: Dr Niraj Niranjan, Consultant Anaesthetist, University Hospital of North Durham, UK

†Corresponding author email: l.spencer@doctors.org.uk

Published 5 November 2019

Abstract

Infective encephalitis is the acute, usually viral, infective inflammation of the brain parenchyma. A minority of patients will develop a severe manifestation and may deteriorate and require organ support, often prior to the diagnosis being confirmed. A low index of clinical suspicion and prompt (often empirical) antimicrobial treatment is crucial for the best chance of a recovery without disability. Management in the critical care setting focuses on treating the primary pathology whilst preventing secondary brain injury.

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