Japanese viral encephalitis
- 1Department of Paediatrics, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Pondicherry, India
- 2Department of Microbiology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Pondicherry, India
- Correspondence to: Dr S Srinivasan, Department of Paediatrics, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Pondicherry–605006, India; drtmserane{at}yahoo.com or Srinivasan_jip{at}yahoo.com
- Received 5 March 2001
- Accepted 14 September 2001
Abstract
One of the leading causes of acute encephalopathy in children in the tropics is Japanese encephalitis (JE). Transmitted by the culex mosquito, this neurotropic virus predominately affects the thalamus, anterior horns of the spinal cord, cerebral cortex, and cerebellum. It mainly affects children <15 years and is mostly asymptomatic. The occasional symptomatic child typically presents with a neurological syndrome characterised by altered sensorium, seizures, and features of intracranial hypertension. Aetiological diagnosis is based on virus isolation or demonstration of virus specific antigen or antibodies in the cerebrospinal fluid/blood. Though no antiviral drug is available against JE, effective supportive management can improve the outcome. Control of JE involves efficient vector control and appropriate use of vaccines.
- CNS, central nervous system
- CSF, cerebrospinal fluid
- EEG, electroencephalogram
- JE, Japanese encephalitis
- JEV, Japanese encephalitis virus
- Mac-ELISA, IgM antibody capture ELISA
- M-IGSS, monoclonal antibody/immunogold/silver staining
- PCO2
- carbon dioxide tension
