Viral Meningitis

Viral encephalitis/meningitis are acute intracranial inflammations from various viruses; meninges-predominant = meningitis; parenchymal = encephalitis. Mostly self-limited. Previously called "aseptic meningitis" (typical meningeal signs but negative bacterial smears/cultures).

Common Symptoms

Coma; involuntary movement; diarrhea; hallucination; stupor; restlessness; abdominal pain; convulsion; nausea

Causes and Pathogenesis

(1) Etiology: mostly enteroviruses; then mumps/LCMV; few herpes (HSV/VZV); occasional EBV/CMV. Enteroviruses: non-enveloped small RNA, survive in sewage; human-only; include polio/coxsackie (A/B)/ECHO (>30 serotypes). (2) Pathogenesis: enteric/respiratory entry → lymphoid replication → viremia → extraneural organs → CNS via choroid plexus. Strong immune response worsens demyelination/vascular injury. Pathology: diffuse perivascular lymphocyte/plasma cell cuffs in leptomeninges; cortical neuronal degeneration/myelin breakdown; some cases show post-infectious demyelination with relatively preserved neurons/axons.

Treatment

Drug therapy, rehabilitation

Preventive Measures

Exercise; prevent colds/enteric infections; timely treatment. Vaccinate measles/rubella/mumps/JE; mosquito control. Non-contagious; early symptoms flu-like. Strengthen upper-respiratory resistance; routine immunization; early comprehensive treatment reduces sequelae.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Neurology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.