What is Encephalitis lethargica?

Encephalitis lethargica is an unusual form of encephalitis, also known of as “sleepy sickness.” The condition was first defined in 1917 by Constantin von Economo, a neurologist who described the classic symptoms of speechlessness and loss of motion that the condition causes.

The brain damage seen in encephalitis lethargica can sometimes leave patients in a statue-like state. A worldwide epidemic of the condition occurred between 1915 and 1925 and although no further epidemics have been recorded, isolated cases still sometimes occur.

Symptoms

Some of the symptoms of encephalitis lethargica include:

  • High fever
  • Sore throat
  • Headache
  • Lethargy
  • Double vision
  • Delayed responses, both physically and mentally
  • Sleep inversion
  • Catatonia or unresponsiveness
  • In severe cases, a patient may enter a state resembling coma called akinetic mutism
  • Abnormal eye movements called oculogyric crises
  • Weakness in the upper body
  • Muscle pains
  • Tremors
  • Vocal tic called klazomania
  • Neck rigidity
  • Behavioural changes including psychosis

Causes

The exact cause of this condition is not clear. Research has suggested encephalitis lethargica occurs as a result of an immune reaction to strepotococcal infection. Studies have also shown the condition may be autoimmune in origin.

Treatment

Patients may benefit from the use of corticosteroids in the initial stages. Many of the symptoms seen in encephalitis lethargica are similar to those seen in Parkinson’s disease and anti-parkinson medications such as Levodopa can be effective. The sleeping pill Zolpidem has also been reported as an effective treatment for the condition.

Further Reading

Last Updated: Jun 20, 2019

Dr. Ananya Mandal

Written by

Dr. Ananya Mandal

Dr. Ananya Mandal is a doctor by profession, lecturer by vocation and a medical writer by passion. She specialized in Clinical Pharmacology after her bachelor's (MBBS). For her, health communication is not just writing complicated reviews for professionals but making medical knowledge understandable and available to the general public as well.

Citations

Please use one of the following formats to cite this article in your essay, paper or report:

  • APA

    Mandal, Ananya. (2019, June 20). What is Encephalitis lethargica?. News-Medical. Retrieved on October 31, 2024 from https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-is-Encephalitis-lethargica.aspx.

  • MLA

    Mandal, Ananya. "What is Encephalitis lethargica?". News-Medical. 31 October 2024. <https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-is-Encephalitis-lethargica.aspx>.

  • Chicago

    Mandal, Ananya. "What is Encephalitis lethargica?". News-Medical. https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-is-Encephalitis-lethargica.aspx. (accessed October 31, 2024).

  • Harvard

    Mandal, Ananya. 2019. What is Encephalitis lethargica?. News-Medical, viewed 31 October 2024, https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-is-Encephalitis-lethargica.aspx.

Comments

The opinions expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of News Medical.
Post a new comment
Post

While we only use edited and approved content for Azthena answers, it may on occasions provide incorrect responses. Please confirm any data provided with the related suppliers or authors. We do not provide medical advice, if you search for medical information you must always consult a medical professional before acting on any information provided.

Your questions, but not your email details will be shared with OpenAI and retained for 30 days in accordance with their privacy principles.

Please do not ask questions that use sensitive or confidential information.

Read the full Terms & Conditions.