Journal of Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences University (Jan 2020)
Clinical Profile and Predictor of Adverse Outcome in Children with Acute Encephalitis Syndrome: A Cross-Sectional Study
Abstract
Background: Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) is defined as a person of any age at any time of year, with the acute onset of fever and a change in mental status such as confusion, disorientation, coma or inability to talk and/or new onset of seizures (excluding simple febrile seizure). Most cases of AES are due to viral encephalitis, which is more prevalent in South East Asia. Aim and Objectives: to study clinical profile and risk factors for adverse outcome of AES in children in Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital (AVBRH). Material and Methods: This cross-sectional, observational study was conducted in children with AES admitted in Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) of AVBRH over period of 2 years (August 2017- July 2019). Data collection were done by using predesigned, structured proforma and analyzed by using SPSS version 22. Results: Of the 80 cases enrolled in the study 31.25% were between 10-15 years. In this study male to female ratio was 1.5. Mostly subjects were residing in rural area (54.1%), with a common presentation of fever (100%), altered sensorium (73.7%) and convulsion (71.25%). Mortality was observed in 23.7% cases out of which 40(50%) had viral etiology (other than dengue), 21(26.25%) had dengue, 5(6.2%) had malaria. Those who presented with shock and required mechanical ventilation and had deranged Liver Function Test (LFT) profile have statistically significant correlation with mortality. Conclusion:Majority of cases were in the age group 10-15 years, with male predominance. Deranged LFT, presence of shock significantly associated with mortality among children with AES. Viral encephalitis is an important cause of AES.
