Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain typically caused by infectious pathogens like viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites. Common viral causes include herpes simplex virus, arboviruses transmitted by mosquitoes, or rabies. Bacterial infections like mycoplasma and rickettsia can also spark encephalitis. While encephalitis itself isn’t contagious, many of its underlying causes spread between people and animals.
What are the Causes of Encephalitis Disease?
The exact cause of encephalitis is not known in approximately half of patients. In those for whom a cause is identified, there are two main types:
Infectious Encephalitis
Occurs when a virus or any other agent directly affects the brain
It is possible that the infection affects one area or is widespread
Viruses are the most common causes including some spread by mosquitoes or ticks
Very rarely caused by bacteria, fungus or parasites
Autoimmune Encephalitis
Occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the brain or targets brain proteins and receptors
The reason this happens is not fully understood
Can be triggered by cancerous tumours (paraneoplastic/autoimmune encephalitis)
Other types like acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) are triggered by infections in the body (post-infectious autoimmune encephalitis)
In many cases, no trigger is identified
Conclusion
Health insurance plays a vital role in enabling access to quality and timely diagnosis and treatment for encephalitis. Health insurance covers hospital stays, medical tests, medications, and rehabilitation services, which makes the treatment affordable for patients. Health insurance helps them get the comprehensive care needed to recover and reduce the long-term impacts of this serious neurological infection.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.