Recurrent Episodes of Encephalopathy/Encephalitis Secondary to Influenza Virus in a Pediatric Patient

Pediatr Infect Dis J. 2023 Oct 1;42(10):e380-e382. doi: 10.1097/INF.0000000000004014. Epub 2023 Jul 13.

Abstract

Influenza virus commonly causes acute upper respiratory tract infections in pediatrics. Rarely, influenza-associated encephalopathy/encephalitis may occur in 4 of 100,000 children annually in the United States. North American literature, however, is sparse regarding the incidence of recurrent episodes. This report characterizes the clinical manifestations and identifies genetic, virologic and/or epidemiologic factors making children susceptible for recurring episodes of influenza-associated encephalopathy/encephalitis.

MeSH terms

  • Brain Diseases*
  • Child
  • Encephalitis* / epidemiology
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Influenza, Human* / epidemiology
  • Orthomyxoviridae*