Etymed
encephalitis
Definition
inflammation of the brain
Clinical context
A 23-year-old woman presents with fever, headache, and confusion that started 3 days ago. On examination, she has neck stiffness and altered mental status. Lumbar puncture shows elevated white blood cells and protein in the cerebrospinal fluid. MRI reveals bilateral temporal lobe edema. She is diagnosed with viral encephalitis after positive PCR for herpes simplex virus. Despite treatment, she remains confused and develops focal neurological deficits.
Mnemonic
E-ncephalitis = Encephalitis = E-n-flame of the brain (inflammation)
These morphemes also unlock…
- encephal/o — brain
- itis — inflammation