Encephalopathy
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What is Encephalopathy?Is there any treatment?What is the prognosis?What research is being done?What is Encephalopathy?
Encephalopathy is a term for any diffuse disease of the brain that alters brain function or structure. Encephalopathy may
be caused by infectious agent (bacteria, virus, or prion), metabolic or mitochondrial dysfunction, brain tumor or increased
pressure in the skull, prolonged exposure to toxic elements (including solvents, drugs, radiation, paints, industrial chemicals,
and certain metals), chronic progressive trauma, poor nutrition, or lack of oxygen or blood flow to the brain. The hallmark
of encephalopathy is an altered mental state. Depending on the type and severity of encephalopathy, common neurological symptoms
are progressive loss of memory and cognitive ability, subtle personality changes, inability to concentrate, lethargy, and
progressive loss of consciousness. Other neurological symptoms may include myoclonus (involuntary twitching of a muscle or
group of muscles), nystagmus (rapid, involuntary eye movement), tremor, muscle atrophy and weakness, dementia, seizures, and
loss of ability to swallow or speak. Blood tests, spinal fluid examination, imaging studies, electroencephalograms, and similar
diagnostic studies may be used to differentiate the various causes of encephalopathy.
Is there any treatment?
Treatment is symptomatic and varies, according to the type and severity of the encephalopathy. Your physician can provide
specific instructions for proper care and treatment. Anticonvulsants may be prescribed to reduce or halt any seizures. Changes
to diet and nutritional supplements may help some patients. In severe cases, dialysis or organ replacement surgery may be
needed.
What is the prognosis?
Treating the underlying cause of the disorder may improve symptoms. However, the encephalopathy may cause permanent structural
changes and irreversible damage to the brain. Some encephalopathies can be fatal.
What research is being done?
The NINDS supports and conducts research on brain diseases. Much of this research is aimed at characterizing the agents that
cause these disorders, clarifying the mechanisms underlying them, and, ultimately, finding ways to prevent, treat, and cure
them.
Select this link
to view a list of studies currently seeking patients.
Prepared by:
Office of Communications and Public Liaison
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, MD 20892
NINDS health-related material is provided for information purposes only and does not necessarily represent endorsement by
or an official position of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke or any other Federal agency. Advice
on the treatment or care of an individual patient should be obtained through consultation with a physician who has examined
that patient or is familiar with that patient's medical history.
All NINDS-prepared information is in the public domain and may be freely copied. Credit to the NINDS or the NIH is appreciated.
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Last updated February 12, 2007
