Complications

Complication
Timeframe
Likelihood
short term
high

Neurological complications resulting from encephalitis (e.g., seizures, lethargy, disorientation, ataxia, and paresis) are seen in approximately 90% of patients hospitalised with EEEV infection.

EEEV can cause neurological complications as it can infect the central nervous system of the host.

Monitoring for elevated intracranial pressure may prevent brain herniation and death.

long term
medium

Of those who recover from EEEV infection, approximately 50% have neurological sequelae.[2]

Gross and fine motor impairment may be a long-term neurological complication associated with EEEV infection.[16][45]

long term
medium

Of those who recover from EEEV infection, approximately 50% have neurological sequelae.[2]

Memory impairment may be a long-term neurological complication associated with EEEV infection.[16][45]

long term
medium

Of those who recover from EEEV infection, approximately 50% have neurological sequelae.[2]

Behavioural changes may be a long-term neurological complication associated with EEEV infection.[16][45]

long term
medium

Of those who recover from EEEV infection, approximately 50% have neurological sequelae.[2]

Weakness and tremors may be a long-term neurological complication associated with EEEV infection.[16][45]

long term
medium

Sensory defects (e.g., reduction in hearing, taste, and smell) may occur in the long-term as a result of neurological complications caused by EEEV infection.[46]

variable
high

Seizures are a complication of EEEV infection seen most commonly in patients aged >50 years or <15 years.

Anticonvulsants should be used to manage such seizures, but treatment must be monitored (e.g., levels of drug in the blood) to ensure that therapeutic levels are achieved.

variable
medium

Use of benzodiazepines for seizure control in an emergency may result in hypotension and sedation with a need for intubation to protect the patient's airway.

Anticonvulsants, such as phenytoin, have many drug-drug interactions, are generally not recommended in pregnancy, and have many possible adverse effects (e.g., confusion, trouble with speech, swallowing, tremors).

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