What Is Encephalomyelitis?
Encephalomyelitis is a medical condition that involves inflammation of both the brain (encephalo-) and spinal cord (myelitis). This inflammation can interfere with the brain’s and spinal cord’s ability to send and receive signals, which can affect a person’s movement, sensation, thinking, and other body functions.
It is often caused by infections, autoimmune reactions, or certain viral illnesses. Some forms can be acute and life-threatening, while others may develop gradually and cause long-term neurological issues.
What Causes Encephalomyelitis?
There are several causes of encephalomyelitis, including:
- Viral infections like measles, herpes viruses, or West Nile virus
- Autoimmune conditions where the immune system attacks the nervous system
- Post-infectious reactions (after recovering from an infection)
- Demyelinating diseases like multiple sclerosis
- Bacterial or parasitic infections in rare cases
- Unknown (idiopathic) in some individuals
What Are the Types of Encephalomyelitis?
Several types of encephalomyelitis exist, including:
- Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM): Often triggered by a viral infection or vaccination, this type usually affects children and involves a sudden attack of inflammation in the brain and spinal cord.
- Parainfectious Encephalomyelitis: Happens during or after a viral or bacterial infection.
- Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis: In this form, the immune system mistakenly attacks the nervous system.
- Viral Encephalomyelitis: Caused by direct infection of the brain and spinal cord by viruses such as herpes simplex, Epstein-Barr, or enteroviruses.
What Are the Symptoms of Encephalomyelitis?
Symptoms can vary depending on which parts of the brain and spinal cord are affected but often include:
- Headache
- Fever
- Neck stiffness
- Fatigue or weakness
- Numbness or tingling
- Difficulty walking or balance issues
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Vision problems
- Seizures (in severe cases)
- Bladder or bowel dysfunction
How Is Encephalomyelitis Diagnosed?
Doctors use several tools to diagnose encephalomyelitis, including:
- Medical history and symptom review
- Neurological examination
- MRI of the brain and spinal cord
- Lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to examine spinal fluid
- Blood tests to look for infections or immune markers
- EEG (electroencephalogram) to detect abnormal brain activity
How Is Encephalomyelitis Treated?
Treatment depends on the cause and severity but may include:
- Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
- Antiviral or antibiotic medications if an infection is identified
- Plasma exchange (plasmapheresis) for severe autoimmune cases
- IV immunoglobulin (IVIG) to support immune regulation
- Pain relievers and fever reducers
- Physical therapy for recovery of motor function and mobility
- Anticonvulsants if seizures occur
Early treatment is important to prevent complications and reduce the risk of permanent damage.
Is Encephalomyelitis Contagious?
The condition itself is not contagious, but if it’s caused by a virus or bacteria, the underlying infection may be spread from person to person. Practicing good hygiene and staying up to date on vaccinations can help reduce the risk.
Can Encephalomyelitis Be Prevented?
In some cases, prevention is possible by:
- Vaccinating against common viruses like measles, mumps, and rubella
- Avoiding exposure to ticks and mosquitoes (which may transmit certain viruses)
- Practicing good hygiene and handwashing
- Treating infections promptly
- Managing underlying autoimmune conditions with proper medical care
When Should You See a Doctor?
Seek medical help immediately if you or someone you know experiences:
- Sudden high fever with confusion
- Seizures
- Loss of motor control or sensation
- Severe headache with vision problems
- Trouble walking or speaking
Prompt treatment can reduce complications and improve outcomes.