Abstract
In the 1980s the outcome of patients with herpes simplex encephalitis was shown to be dramatically improved with aciclovir treatment. Delays in starting treatment, particularly beyond 48 h after hospital admission, are associated with a worse prognosis. Several comprehensive reviews of the investigation and management of encephalitis have been published. However, their impact on day-to-day clinical practice appears to be limited. The emergency management of meningitis in children and adults was revolutionised by the introduction of a simple algorithm as part of management guidelines.In February 2008 a group of clinicians met in Liverpool to begin the development process for clinical care guidelines based around a similar simple algorithm, supported by an evidence base, whose implementation is hoped would improve the management of patients with suspected encephalitis. © 2012.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 449-477 |
Number of pages | 28 |
Journal | Journal Of Infection |
Volume | 64 |
Issue number | 5 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - May 2012 |
Keywords
- Antibody-associated encephalitis
- Encephalitis
- Enterovirus
- Herpes simplex virus
- Immunocompromised
- Varicella zoster virus
- Viral encephalitis