Word parts
What it means
Swelling and irritation of the brain tissue itself. Viruses such as herpes simplex, West Nile and others carried by mosquitoes or ticks are common causes; it can also be autoimmune. It can cause fever, headache, confusion, behavior changes, seizures and coma. It is related to meningitis, which is inflammation of the meningesmuh-NIN-jeezThe three thin layers of tissue that cover and protect the brain and spinal cord.mening/o membraneFull entry , the coverings of the brain.
For the nurse
Do frequent neurological checks, use seizure precautions, and report any change in level of consciousness right away.
At a glance
| Spanish | encefalitis |
|---|
Related terms
-itis
A word ending that means inflammation.
seizure
A sudden burst of abnormal electrical activity in the brain that changes movement, feeling, behavior or awareness.
encephal/o
A word part that means brain.
meninges
The three thin layers of tissue that cover and protect the brain and spinal cord.
encephalopathy
A general term for any disease or damage that changes how the brain works.