?:definition
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Encephalitis is defined as inflammation of the brain. Commonly has an infectious etiology. May also be drug-induced (focus of this SMQ). Mixed disorders such as encephalomyelitis, encephalomyeloradiculitis, or encephalo-myelopathy may present with overlapping symptoms. Signs and symptoms include: acute febrile illness characteristic of meningitis; confusion; behavioral abnormalities, including frank psychosis; altered level of consciousness; focal or generalized seizures; and focal neurological disturbances including aphasia, ataxia, hemiparesis, involuntary movements, cranial nerve deficits. Involvement of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis may result in temperature dysregulation, diabetes insipidus, or development of SIADH. Characteristic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) profile consists of lymphocytic pleocytosis, mildly elevated protein concentration and normal glucose concentration. MRI, CT, and EEG abnormalities may occur.
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