Complications
Caused by hypoventilation due to respiratory muscle weakness and aspiration due to decreased level of consciousness. Increased risk in immunocompromised people. Should be treated with appropriate antibiotics.[46]
Flaccid paralysis predisposes patients to deep vein thrombosis. Can be prevented or treated with appropriate anticoagulation.[46]
Infection stresses the immune system and body, rendering the patient more susceptible to infections from bacteria that are usually present (e.g., Staphylococcus, Streptococcus) and may not cause an active infection in a healthy individual. Therefore, the patient must be watched vigilantly for any signs of a bacterial infection. For example, if a patient develops any respiratory symptoms, such as a cough, the physician should have a lower threshold for ordering a chest x-ray to evaluate for pneumonia. Treat with antibiotics specific to infection.
Occurs in West Nile fever or neuroinvasive disease, and persists for months. More likely to persist in neuroinvasive disease (especially West Nile encephalitis). Treatment is supportive.[84]
Occurs in West Nile fever or neuroinvasive disease and persists for months. Can be treated with analgesia.[84]
Hepatitis should be suspected if the patient has jaundice, right upper quadrant abdominal pain, and tenderness. Frequently self-limiting, but could progress to fulminant hepatitis. This complication is very rare, and treatment is supportive.
Typically presents with severe abdominal pain and elevated serum amylase/lipase. This complication is very rare, and treatment is supportive.
Suspected when cardiac echocardiogram or electrocardiography is abnormal, and cardiac enzymes (troponin and creatine phosphokinase) are raised. Could result in life-threatening arrhythmias. This complication is very rare, and treatment is supportive.
Use of this content is subject to our disclaimer