Encephalopathy
ENCEPHALOPATHY is a brain disorder that affects a person's mental state and brain function. In cases of encephalopathy, an alteration in the brain's structure or chemistry results in an altered mental state. This condition may be present from birth or may present with age.
Encephalopathy: Causes
Most of the time, the alteration in the cerebral morphology is due to an external agent, be it an infection type that can be viral, bacterial, fungal, parasitic— or due to exposure to toxic substances such as industrial products, metals, medicines, and chemicals. Encephalitis may also develop due to brain trauma, or, alterations in cerebral blood flow. Any of these factors can alter the structure and function of the brain, which may lead to development of encephalitis.
ENCEPHALOPATHY: SYMPTOMS
Clinical manifestations:
Psychiatric
Behavioral changes
Aggressive/irrational behavior
Paranoid schizophrenia
Depression
Hypomanic episodes
Dementia
Delirium attacks
Motor
Myelopathies
Parkinson's
Epileptic seizures.
Neurological
Intellectual capacity changes
Level of consciousness
ENCEPHALOPATHY: DIAGNOSIS
The different causes and types of Encephalopathy make it necessary to carry out an extensive, detailed clinical history in studying patients with disorders and symptoms of brain damage. First, the doctor should investigate a history of pre-existing diseases such as diabetes mellitus, liver disorders, and drug use—infectious diseases history before the onset of symptoms. The battery of laboratory tests should include complete blood count, liver and kidney function tests, blood gas tests, and Ph. Urinalysis, and if a nervous system infection is suspected, lumbar puncture and cerebrospinal fluid studies. Cultures of blood and urine. Imaging studies oriented to the type of Encephalopathy. Computerized axial tomography images and abdominal ultrasound.
ENCEPHALOPATHY: TREATMENT
The different treatment options will depend on the type of Encephalopathy. In general, cases of Encephalopathy usually require prolonged hospital stays for in-depth analysis and diagnosis. In general, fluid and electrolyte management is essential. Steroids and antibiotics are possible treatment options depending on the type of Encephalopathy.
Things to watch out for to determine possible treatment options:
- Unexplained behavioral changes
- Drowsiness or agitation
- Delirium
- Hallucinations
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Alterations in the urine test
ENCEPHALOPATHY PREVENTION
Encephalitis is an unexpected disorder; therefore, it is hard to prevent.
In some people, such as those with liver damage, physicians may be able to prevent a case of Encephalopathy by managing the condition that puts the person at a higher risk.
Reducing alcohol consumption can prevent liver damage that causes Encephalopathy and decrease the risk of Wernicke's Encephalopathy.
What to do in case of suspected encephalitis?
Patients exhibiting symptoms affecting their mental state or psychomotor abilities should seek immediate medical attention.
Encephalitis occurs insidiously; symptoms such as confusion and incoherent language can be very mild. Education about this pathology and its symptoms is the first step toward preventing further damage. Alterations caused by Encephalopathy can be reversible if diagnosis and treatment take place in the early stages.