Encephalopathy
| Encephalopathy | |
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| Binswangers Subcortical Encephalopathy: Gross fixed tissue horizontal section cerebral hemispheres at level of genu internal capsule Image courtesy of Professor Peter Anderson DVM PhD and published with permission © PEIR, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Pathology | |
| MeSH | D001927 |
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Encephalopathy |
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Diagnosis |
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Treatment |
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Encephalopathy On the Web |
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American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Encephalopathy |
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] ; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Aditya Govindavarjhulla, M.B.B.S. [2]
Overview
Classification
Pathophysiology
Causes
Diagnosis
Symptoms
The hallmark of encephalopathy is an altered mental state. The symptoms may vary depending on the type and severity of encephalopathy, but common neurological symptoms include:
- Progressive loss of memory and cognitive ability
- Subtle personality changes
- Inability to concentrate
- Lethargy
- Progressive loss of consciousness
Physical Examination
- Myoclonus (involuntary twitching of a muscle or group of muscles)
- Nystagmus (rapid, involuntary eye movement)
- Tremor
- Muscle atrophy and weakness
- Dementia
- Seizure
- Loss of ability to swallow
- Loss of ability to speak
Diagnosis
Blood tests, spinal fluid examination by lumbar puncture, imaging studies, electroencephalography.
Therapy
Treatment is symptomatic and varies, according to the type and severity of the encephalopathy. Anticonvulsants may be prescribed to reduce or halt any seizures. Changes to diet and nutritional supplements may help some patients. In severe cases, dialysis or organ replacement surgery may be needed.
Prognosis
Treating the underlying cause of the disorder may improve or reverse symptoms. However, in some cases, the encephalopathy may cause permanent structural changes and irreversible damage to the brain. Some encephalopathies can be fatal.
References
See also
Template:CNS diseases of the nervous system
de:Enzephalopathie id:Ensefalopati it:Encefalopatia nl:Encefalopathie