Neuroinvasive West Nile Encephalitis Presenting With Seizures and Acute Flaccid Paralysis: A Case Report
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: West Nile encephalitis (WNE) is a serious neurological disorder caused by the West Nile virus (WNV), a mosquito-borne flavivirus. The virus is mainly transmitted to humans through bites from infected Culex mosquitoes, with birds acting as the primary reservoir hosts. While most WNV infections are asymptomatic or cause a mild febrile illness (West Nile fever), a small subset of cases progresses to severe neuroinvasive disease, such as encephalitis, meningitis, or acute flaccid paralysis. WNE is marked by brain inflammation, resulting in high fever, headache, neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors, seizures, and paralysis. Advanced age and immunocompromised states are important risk factors for severe disease. There is no specific antiviral treatment for WNE, and management remains supportive. Preventive measures, such as mosquito control and public awareness, are essential for reducing the incidence of this disease. WNV has a global distribution, with outbreaks reported in North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia, making it a significant public health issue.
Source: Cureus
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.80163
Authors: Bola Habeb, Kandace Williams, Nilgun Demirag, Sandy Khair, Seth Fowler
Institutions: University of Florida, Sacred Heart Hospital, Cairo University
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4408181373