Question
Hello, during spring and winter, viral encephalitis is a high-incidence season. Generally, the cause of encephalitis is due to a history of common cold (i.e., upper respiratory infection), and a portion is caused by mumps infection. Common symptoms include headache, vomiting, fever, and decreased mental alertness. The younger the child, the more severe the condition becomes. (In our department, we have three children under one year old with poor prognoses, one of whom was in a coma for over a week.) Associated auxiliary examinations include abnormal brainwave activity. Doctors usually recommend a lumbar puncture to determine whether it is cerebrospinal fluid leakage or purulent encephalitis. However, for mild cases, it may not be necessary. Treatment includes dehydration and lowering intracranial pressure, as well as antiviral fluid replacement therapy.
Answer
My 1.5-year-old nephew was diagnosed with encephalitis due to fever at 18 months old. He has been discharged for over a year now. The sequelae (difficulty in extending hands, unclear speech, and unsteady walking) have not improved. I kindly ask experts to tell me if such sequelae can be treated? Could you please recommend some related expert doctors? The treatment of encephalitis sequelae requires evaluation and intervention based on specific conditions. Generally, younger children have more severe conditions with poorer prognoses, possibly resulting in limited hand function, unclear speech, and unsteady walking. I suggest consulting related expert doctors who can develop appropriate treatment plans based on the specific situation.