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st. Louis encephalitis

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The information provided on this page is for informational purposes only. The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) does not endorse the information presented. The content has been gathered in partnership with the MONDO Disease Ontology. Please consult with a healthcare professional for medical advice and treatment.


Disease Overview

A viral encephalitis caused by the St. Louis encephalitis virus (encephalitis virus, st. louis), a flavivirus. It is transmitted to humans and other vertebrates primarily by mosquitoes of the genus culex. The primary animal vectors are wild birds and the disorder is endemic to the midwestern and southeastern United States. Infections may be limited to an influenza-like illness or present as an aseptic meningitis or encephalitis. Clinical manifestations of the encephalitic presentation may include seizures, lethargy, myoclonus, focal neurologic signs, coma, and death. (From Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, p750)


Synonyms

  • Neuroinvasive St. Louis encephalitis virus infection
  • Saint Louis encephalitis
  • St. Louis encephalitis virus caused infectious encephalitis
  • St. Louis encephalitis virus infectious encephalitis

GARD Disease Summary

The Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) has information and resources for patients, caregivers, and families that may be helpful before and after diagnosis of this condition. GARD is a program of the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

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Orphanet

Orphanet has a summary about this condition that may include information on the diagnosis, care, and treatment as well as other resources. Some of the information and resources are available in languages other than English. The summary may include medical terms, so we encourage you to share and discuss this information with your doctor. Orphanet is the French National Institute for Health and Medical Research and the Health Programme of the European Union.

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