Limbic encephalitis - Essay Example

It governs the processes like writing, planning and speaking. (Vincent et al, 2008) As the structure and function of the brain is analysed to some extent, it becomes clear that dealing with brain can be complicated and multifarious, particularly in medical terms. “Encephalitis, an inflammation of brain parenchyma, presents as diffuse and/or focal neuropsychological dysfunction. From an epidemiologic and pathophysiologic perspective, encephalitis is distinct from meningitis, though on clinical evaluation the two often coexist with signs and symptoms of meningeal inflammation, such as photophobia, headache or a stiff neck.

” (Lazoff, 2010). Encephalitis thus affects the brain in full or parts and it results into several behavioural disorders of the patient. The anatomy of brain explains that when affected, the brain fails to regulate the vital functions of human life. The form of encephalitis in which the limbic system is affected is called the limbic encephalitis. Limbic encephalitis involves inflammation of the limbic or intermediate brain. Hence, it can be regarded as an anatomical diagnosis rather than a disease caused by common, specific causative.

(Vincent et al, 2008) “Limbic encephalitis is a condition marked by the inflammation of the limbic system and other parts of the brain. The cardinal sign of limbic encephalitis is a severe impairment of short-term memory; however, symptoms may also include confusion, psychiatric symptoms, and seizures. The symptoms typically develop over a few weeks or months, but they may evolve over a few days. Delayed diagnosis is common, but improvements are being made to assist in early detection.

 Early diagnosis may improve the outcome of limbic encephalitis.” (National Institutes of Health, 2010) Also, limbic encephalitis can be defined as “a progressive dementia, often preceded or accompanied by agitation, depression and behavioural disturbances. It is