Suspected encephalitis in adults: a challenging diagnosis

Encephalitis, at its simplest, is inflammation of the functional tissue of the brain. With a wide range of infectious and non-infectious causes, it can be difficult to differentiate from other forms of encephalopathy. Yet a growing evidence base suggests that the time to treatment is a key determinant in patient outcomes, making a rapid diagnosis of high importance.

In this editors' choice podcast, PN podcast editor Dr. Amy Ross Russell interviews Dr. Yun Huang¹ ² and Prof. Benedict Michael¹ ², on the paper, "Suspected encephalitis in adults", published in the October 2026 edition of the journal.

They highlight the importance of collateral history in encephalitis patients, and the strong influence of the patients immune status. Common treatments are discussed, including the risks and benefits of preemptive use of acyclovir, and the empirical application of steroids. Looking forward, testing methods such as metagenomics show promise in handling novel pathogens.

Links:

• Autoimmune encephalitis: clinical spectrum and management
• Paraneoplastic neurological syndromes: a practical approach to diagnosis and management
• Management of suspected infectious and autoimmune encephalitis in adults – National Guidelines from the United Kingdom Joint Societies
• Encephalitis International

1. University of Liverpool, Liverpool UK
2. The Walton Centre, Liverpool, UK

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This episode was hosted by PN's podcast editor Dr. Amy Ross Russell. Production by Amy Ross Russell, Marina Milsum, Letícia Amorim and Brian O'Toole. Editing by Brian O'Toole. Thank you for listening.