Eureka! Institutional Repository

This dissertation constitutes a review of recent research data regarding two epidemic diseases that plague the health of the global population. These diseases are two types of viral encephalitis: acute viral encephalitis and encephalomyelitis . Initially, it is provided the definition of “viral encephalitis”, historical data and recent epidemiologic data for a better understanding of the disease. Next, it is provided a short review of anatomical aspects of the central nervous system, focusing on the brain and the spinal cord, which are the areas expressing the disease. Then, data regarding pathology and therapeutic interventions of viral encephalitis are being presented and discussed in general. In the following part of the dissertation, a segregation of viral encephalitis to acute viral encephalitis and to encephalomyelitis is provided. Each type of viral encephalitis is accompanied by a comprehensive report of epidemiological data, causative and pathological factors, diagnostic tools and therapeutic interventions. Finally, general data of prevention and prognosis of the disease is provided for better and more comprehensive understanding. The morphology and pathology of viral encephalitis is a critical issue for the discovery of new therapeutic interventions. While there is a considerable amount of existing research and significant results appear to be promising regarding the understanding and functioning of the disease, treatment innovations seem to be declining.