Re: Encephalitis

Posted By CCF MD mdf on September 14, 1998 at 23:03:06:

In Reply to: Encephalitis posted by EM on September 14, 1998 at 10:38:09:






My daughter has been diagnosed with viral brain stem encephalitis which has affected her hypoglossal nerves (both twelfth cranial nerves).  The doctor says she will heal in time and there is really no treatment.  I am looking for any information on the prognosis and healing time involved in this type of nerve damage.  Thank you.
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Hard to say, really.
If the ONLY thing involved were both CN12 (hypoglossals) then your daughter should be OK. That is, if her level of consciousness is normal, if she doesn't have double vision, if her coordination is OK, and if she can speak and swallow OK, then those are good signs.
The hypoglossal nerves connect to the muscles which protrude the tongue. Your daughter may have difficulty sticking her tongue out. You'll know if it gets better because it's directly observable. Have her press her tongue through the lips against a tongue depressor, jot down or memorize how strong her tongue is, and repeat the test at intervals of months to a year.
For viral encephalitis or meningitis, the prognosis is usually OK. If anything gets worse over time, then rethink the diagnosis.
As you know, this forum doesn't substitute for medical advice from your doctor. I hope this helps. CCF MD mdf.