Difference Between Encephalitis and Meningitis

Meningitis is an infection of the meninges, the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain itself. Anyone can get encephalitis or meningitis. Causes of encephalitis and meningitis include viruses, bacteria, fungus, and parasites.

1. How can you tell the difference between meningitis and encephalitis?
2. How do you test for meningitis and encephalitis?
3. What is the difference between encephalitis and encephalopathy?
4. What is the main cause of encephalitis?
5. Which is worse meningitis or encephalitis?
6. What is the survival rate of encephalitis?

How can you tell the difference between meningitis and encephalitis?

The hallmark signs of meningitis include some or all of the following: sudden fever, severe headache, nausea or vomiting, double vision, drowsiness, sensitivity to bright light, and a stiff neck. Encephalitis can be characterized by fever, seizures, change in behavior, and confusion and disorientation.

How do you test for meningitis and encephalitis?

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis. This is a primary diagnostic tool for encephalitis and meningitis. CSF analysis is a group of common tests, and a wide variety of other tests, that can be ordered and performed on a sample of CSF. It is collected using a procedure called a lumbar puncture or spinal tap.

What is the difference between encephalitis and encephalopathy?

In encephalitis, the brain itself is swollen or inflamed. Encephalopathy, on the other hand, refers to the mental state that can happen because of several types of health problems. But encephalitis can cause encephalopathy.

What is the main cause of encephalitis?

Encephalitis is most often due to a virus, such as: herpes simplex viruses, which cause cold sores and genital herpes (this is the most common cause of encephalitis) the varicella zoster virus, which causes chickenpox and shingles. measles, mumps and rubella viruses.

Which is worse meningitis or encephalitis?

Bacterial meningitis and viral encephalitis may be rapidly fatal, even in healthy persons. Survivors may suffer lasting neurological sequelae, including memory loss and seizures. Viral meningitis, by contrast, gives patients a bad headache and a stiff neck, but uneventful recovery is the rule.

What is the survival rate of encephalitis?

Some forms of encephalitis are more severe than others. For example, herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE) has a mortality rate of up to 30% even with specific anti-viral treatment, and 70-80% without the treatment. When death happens it is usually because of the brain swelling as a result of its severe inflammation.