2025 American Academy of Neurology Abstract Website

Objective:

To evaluate the clinical features, laboratory findings, and outcomes in Hispanic pediatric patients with infectious encephalitis.

Background:

Infectious encephalitis is a severe neurological condition that poses significant health risks, particularly in pediatric populations. Understanding the clinical characteristics and outcomes in affected children is crucial for improving diagnosis and management strategies.

Design/Methods:

A retrospective analysis was conducted on pediatric patients diagnosed with infectious encephalitis at a specialized pediatric hospital. Data collected included age, gender, length of hospital stay, clinical symptoms, neurological findings, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, and etiology. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the prevalence of symptoms and outcomes.

Results:

The study included 50 pediatric patients (mean age 7.18 ± 4.68 years). The cohort comprised 32 males (64%) and 18 females (36%). The average length of hospital stay was 19.14 ± 26.10 days. Common symptoms included fever (80%), seizures (76%), and altered mental status (66%). Glasgow Coma Scale scores averaged 12.38 ± 3.12. CSF analysis revealed elevated cell counts (mean 101.16 ± 180.43 cells/mm³) and abnormalities in glucose levels, with hyperglucorrachia observed in 32% of cases. Additionally, protein levels were abnormal in 40% of cases. The primary etiological agents identified were COVID-19 (40%), followed by herpes simplex virus and other viral pathogens. Mortality occurred in 8% of patients.

Conclusions:

The findings indicate that infectious encephalitis significantly affects a pediatric population of Hispanic patients, with a high prevalence of fever, seizures, and altered mental status. COVID-19 emerged as the most common cause. These results underscore the need for heightened awareness and prompt intervention in similar clinical settings to improve outcomes in affected children.