What Is Encephalitis?
5. How Is Encephalitis Diagnosed?
Imaging tests can examine the brain. A computed tomography (CT) scan or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can tell if the brain is bleeding or has swollen. An electroencephalogram (EEG) looks for unusual brain waves by recording the electric activity in the brain.
Blood tests can identify viruses and bacteria while checking for infection-fighting antibodies. A spinal tap or lumbar puncture which examines the cerebrospinal fluid for infection could reveal a high level of white blood cells or protein. A careful review of the weeks prior to the onset of symptoms may indicate the virus that triggered the inflammation.
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