# A Diagnostically Challenging Case of Recurrent Encephalitis With Impending Herniation

## TL;DR

This paper presents a rare case of recurrent encephalitis in a 69-year-old woman and discusses the diagnostic and treatment challenges involved.

## Contribution

The case provides insights into the management of rare, recurrent encephalitis and emphasizes the importance of thorough diagnostic approaches.

## Key findings

- The patient was successfully diagnosed with encephalitis using clinical and imaging findings.
- Appropriate treatment led to the patient's return to baseline mental and functional status.
- The case underscores the complexity of diagnosing and managing recurrent encephalitis.

## Abstract

Encephalitis is characterized by inflammation of the brain parenchyma with typical presenting symptoms of altered mental status and seizures. However, diagnostic workup is complex given the multitude of possible etiologies for encephalitis. Further, recurrence of encephalitis is rare, and understanding its risk factors, mechanisms, prognosis, and optimal treatment remains incomplete. Here, we present the case of a 69-year-old woman admitted to our hospital with altered mental status who was diagnosed with encephalitis based on clinical and imaging findings. This case highlights the diagnostic approaches required to obtain the final diagnosis and the treatment plan that resulted in the patient’s eventual return to baseline and functional independence.