Encephalitic: meaning, definitions and examples

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encephalitic

 

[ɛnˌsɛfəˈlɪtɪk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

medical condition

Encephalitic refers to anything related to encephalitis, which is an inflammation of the brain. This condition can result from infections, autoimmune reactions, or other medical issues. Symptoms may include fever, headache, confusion, seizures, and changes in behavior. Severe cases can lead to permanent neurological damage or even death. It is crucial to seek medical attention if encephalitic symptoms arise.

Synonyms

brain-inflamed, brain-related, encephalitis-associated.

Examples of usage

  • The patient was diagnosed with encephalitic symptoms after showing signs of confusion.
  • Encephalitic reactions can be triggered by various infections.
  • The health team is studying the encephalitic case reported in the region.
  • Doctors are treating the encephalitic inflammation with antiviral medications.

Interesting Facts

Medical Conditions

  • Encephalitis can be caused by viral infections, such as the herpes simplex virus, which can affect people of all ages.
  • Some types of encephalitis are related to autoimmune disorders, where the body's defense system mistakenly attacks the brain.
  • Symptoms include confusion, seizures, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness and can lead to long-term complications.

Historical Origins

  • The term 'encephalitis' comes from the Greek words 'enkephalos' meaning brain, and 'itis' which denotes inflammation.
  • The earliest documented cases of encephalitis date back to the 19th century, although the condition has likely existed for much longer.
  • The distinction between encephalitis and other neurological conditions steadily evolved through research in the 20th century.

Pop Culture

  • Encephalitis has been featured in various films and TV shows, often portrayed in a dramatic light, highlighting its severity.
  • The condition has been referenced in literature, emphasizing themes of loss of identity and the fragility of the human mind.
  • Documentaries have explored the lives of people affected by encephalitis, shedding light on the challenges they face.

Preventive Measures

  • Vaccinations against certain viral infections, like measles and mumps, can reduce the risk of developing encephalitis.
  • Awareness about mosquito-borne illnesses, which can cause encephalitis (e.g., West Nile virus), is crucial for prevention.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment of infections can significantly improve outcomes and reduce long-term complications.

Scientific Research

  • Ongoing research is focused on understanding the exact mechanisms behind encephalitis to develop better treatments.
  • Clinical trials are exploring new antiviral medications that could help manage or prevent encephalitis from specific viruses.
  • Studies are investigating the neural pathways affected by encephalitis to improve recovery strategies for those impacted by the condition.

Translations

Translations of the word "encephalitic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 encefalítico

🇮🇳 मस्तिष्कीय

🇩🇪 enzephalitisch

🇮🇩 ensefalitis

🇺🇦 енцефалітичний

🇵🇱 encefalitowy

🇯🇵 脳炎の

🇫🇷 encéphalitique

🇪🇸 encefálico

🇹🇷 ensefalit

🇰🇷 뇌염의

🇸🇦 التهاب الدماغي

🇨🇿 encefalitický

🇸🇰 encefalitický

🇨🇳 脑炎的

🇸🇮 encefalitični

🇮🇸 heilaþjálfunar

🇰🇿 энцефалиттік

🇬🇪 ენცეფალიტური

🇦🇿 ensefalitik

🇲🇽 encefálico

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,169, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.