A Diagnostically Challenging Case of Recurrent Encephalitis With Impending Herniation.

Encephalitis is characterized by inflammation of the brain parenchyma with typical presenting symptoms of altered mental status and seizures. However, diagnostic workup is complex given the multitude of possible etiologies for encephalitis. Further, recurrence of encephalitis is rare, and understanding its risk factors, mechanisms, prognosis, and optimal treatment remains incomplete. Here, we present the case of a 69-year-old woman admitted to our hospital with altered mental status who was diagnosed with encephalitis based on clinical and imaging findings. This case highlights the diagnostic approaches required to obtain the final diagnosis and the treatment plan that resulted in the patient's eventual return to baseline and functional independence.
Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work.
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