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Metabolic encephalitis is caused by impaired liver function, leading to inflammation in the brain. Symptoms include confusion, personality changes, and muscle stiffness. Treatment involves clearing the infection and reducing inflammation with antiviral drugs or antibiotics. Timely diagnosis is crucial for a good prognosis.
Metabolic encephalitis is a condition defined by significant brain inflammation. Usually triggered by impaired liver function, individuals with metabolic encephalitis can suffer potentially irreversible brain damage. Individuals with encephalitis require hospitalization to treat both the underlying condition and the resulting infection and inflammation. Treatment consists of clearing the individual’s system of the offending toxin or pathogen and is generally determined on a case-by-case basis.
Timely and appropriate diagnosis is the key to a good prognosis. In addition to a complete physical exam, imaging tests, including a computed tomography (CT) scan, may be done to evaluate the brain and check for signs of inflammation and swelling. Laboratory tests, such as a blood panel, are ordered to check for markers suggestive of infection. Depending on the severity of one’s condition, a brain biopsy may also be performed, especially if the individual’s condition does not respond to initial treatment.
In most cases, metabolic encephalitis is caused by an existing disease or illness that significantly impairs liver function. The liver plays an essential role in filtering toxins from the body. If its ability to function is inhibited, toxins build up in the body, leading to disease, inflammation and infection. Metabolic encephalitis occurs when toxins lodge in the bloodstream and cause inflammation in the brain. If toxins are left to build up unchecked, the brain swells, leaving the individual vulnerable to potentially irreversible brain damage.
While everyone has a risk for encephalitis, some individuals are considered to be at greater risk than others. Illnesses and diseases that can affect liver function, such as diabetes and hepatitis, can significantly increase the likelihood of encephalitis. Those with compromised immunity who suffer from chronic infection are also at risk. Existing liver disease can greatly increase the risk of metabolic encephalitis, especially if the person has an active infection, uses narcotic medications regularly, or undergoes major surgery.
Symptoms of metabolic encephalitis are intermittent but can vary in degree of severity. Individuals with metabolic encephalitis often experience cognitive impairment, such as confusion or feeling disoriented. It is not uncommon for some people to exhibit personality changes or speech impairment. Other signs of metabolic encephalitis include muscle stiffness and tremors. Rarely, some people experience seizures or may become comatose.
The ultimate goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation in the brain and clear the infection from the body. Depending on the severity of the encephalitic symptoms, antiviral drugs or antibiotics are given in combination with an analgesic or pain reliever. Fluids may be given to aid in hydration. If symptoms are ignored or treatment delayed, there is a significant risk of permanent vision or hearing loss. Impaired organ function, such as decreased kidney function, may require transplantation depending on the severity of the damage the organ has sustained.
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