Encephalopathy is a term for any diffuse
disease of the brain that alters brain
function or structure. Encephalopathy may be
caused by infectious agent
(bacteria, virus,
or prion), metabolic or mitochondrial
dysfunction, brain tumor or increased
pressure in the skull, prolonged exposure to
toxic elements (including solvents, drugs,
radiation, paints, industrial chemicals, and
certain metals), chronic progressive trauma,
poor nutrition, or lack of oxygen or blood
flow to the brain. The hallmark of
encephalopathy is an altered mental state.
Depending on the type and severity of
encephalopathy, common neurological symptoms
are progressive loss of memory and cognitive
ability, subtle personality changes,
inability to concentrate, lethargy, and
progressive loss of consciousness. Other
neurological symptoms may include myoclonus
(involuntary twitching of a muscle or group
of muscles), nystagmus
(rapid, involuntary
eye movement), tremor, muscle atrophy and
weakness, dementia, seizures, and loss of
ability to swallow or speak. Blood tests,
spinal fluid examination, imaging studies,
electroencephalograms, and similar
diagnostic studies may be used to
differentiate the various causes of
encephalopathy.
Is there any treatment?
Treatment is symptomatic and varies,
according to the type and severity of
the encephalopathy. Your physician can
provide specific instructions for proper
care and treatment. Anticonvulsants may
be prescribed to reduce or halt any
seizures. Changes to diet and
nutritional supplements may help some
patients. In severe cases, dialysis or
organ replacement surgery may be needed.
What is the prognosis?
Treating the underlying cause of the
disorder may improve symptoms. However,
the encephalopathy may cause permanent
structural changes and irreversible
damage to the brain. Some
Encephalopathies can be fatal.
What research is being done?
The NINDS supports and conducts research
on brain diseases. Much of this research
is aimed at characterizing the agents
that cause these disorders, clarifying
the mechanisms underlying them, and,
ultimately, finding ways to prevent,
treat, and cure them.
Select this link to view a list of
studies currently seeking patients.
Prepared by:
Office of Communications and Public Liaison
National Institute of Neurological Disorders
and Stroke
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, MD 20892
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and does not necessarily represent
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the National Institute of Neurological
Disorders and Stroke or any other Federal
agency. Advice on the treatment or care of
an individual patient should be obtained
through consultation with a physician who
has examined that patient or is familiar
with that patient's medical history.
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