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Neurology (Expert Forum)
Viral Encephalitis
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Viral Encephalitis
by seahawk, Jul 30, 2002 12:00AM
Is there any immunity (or any way to measure such) after a bout with viral encephalitis?
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-Neuro-M.D.-JT, Jul 30, 2002 12:00AM
The labs that provide markers for Viral infections are unfortunately not specific in and of themselves for a region of the body. This means that that any viral infection such as herpes which can cause a systemic infection as well as encephalitis may be present at an elevated level in the body but you can't tell where it is unless you know the clinical history or it was directly taken from the cerebrospinal fluid. Correlating the clinical picture and imaging studies along with the labs is essential in making the diagnosis. Finally, many times during an active bout with viral encepahlitis or when the patient's viral load should theoretically be high we can't find out which virus it is even with extensive testing with blood and CSF. Hope that helps.
Encephalitis Global http://groups.msn.com/EncephalitisGlobal offers information and support to people touched by all types of encephalitis.
Wendy - encephalitis survivor
Vancouver Canada