SUSPECTED ENCEPHALITIS IN ADULTS

Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Science, University of Liverpool; Department of Neurology, Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust; Liverpool Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Centre; Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust;

Encephalitis is a critical condition often leading to inpatient neurology referrals, particularly in acutely confused patients. The document highlights the growing evidence that early treatment is crucial for improving outcomes in both infectious and autoimmune encephalitis. It also addresses the challenges in rapid diagnosis due to the existence of mimicking conditions and outlines the clinical syndromes that can guide investigations and treatment strategies.