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Types of Encephalitis
Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain. It can be caused by bacterial or viral infections. A person with encephalitis will have one of two types:
- Primary encephalitis (also called acute viral encephalitis) is caused by a direct viral infection of the spinal cord and brain. The infection may be focal (located in only one area) or diffuse (located in many different areas).
- Secondary encephalitis (also known as postinfective encephalitis) can result from complications of a current viral infection. When this type results from an immunization or earlier viral infection, it is known as acute disseminated encephalitis. This illness often occurs two to three weeks following the initial infection.
(Click Encephalitis for more information on this condition, including its prognosis, common symptoms, and treatment options.)
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD