Name of the Condition

• Common name: Adenoviral Encephalitis
• Medical term: Adenovirus-induced Encephalitis

Summary

Adenoviral encephalitis is a rare neurological disorder caused by an adenovirus infection leading to inflammation of the brain. It can result in a range of neurological symptoms and requires prompt medical attention.

Causes

Adenoviral encephalitis is caused by an infection with adenoviruses, which are common viruses that can affect different tissues, including those in the respiratory tract, eyes, and gastrointestinal tract.

Risk Factors

• Weakened immune system
• Recent respiratory tract infections
• Young age (children are more susceptible)
• Presence of chronic illnesses

Symptoms

• Fever
• Headache
• Confusion or altered mental status
• Seizures
• Nausea or vomiting
• Neurological deficits, such as speech or motor dysfunction

Diagnosis

• Neurological examination
• MRI or CT scan of the brain
• Cerebrospinal fluid analysis via lumbar puncture
• PCR testing to detect adenovirus DNA in the cerebrospinal fluid

Treatment Options

• Antiviral medications (though limited specific treatments are available for adenovirus)
• Supportive care, including hydration and rest
• Anti-seizure medications if seizures occur
• Corticosteroids to reduce brain inflammation

Prognosis and Follow-Up

The prognosis depends on the severity of the infection and timely intervention. Some may recover fully, while others could have long-term neurological issues. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are essential to monitor neurological health.

Complications

• Permanent neurological damage
• Seizures
• Coma
• Secondary bacterial infections

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Practice good hygiene to prevent infection (e.g., handwashing)
• Avoid close contact with infected individuals
• Maintain a healthy immune system through a balanced diet and regular exercise

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing severe headaches, persistent high fever, seizures, or confusion.

Additional Resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• World Health Organization (WHO)
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the correct ICD code A85.1 is used specifically for adenoviral encephalitis.
• Verify that documentation explicitly mentions adenovirus as the cause of encephalitis to avoid miscoding.
• Be cautious of similar ICD codes for other types of viral encephalitis.