Recent progress and challenges of acute encephalitis syndrome: an update on pathogenesis and interventional approaches

Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) refers to inflammation of the brain and is characterized by an acute onset of fever with altered consciousness. It can occur irrespective of age and gender which may eventually trigger seizures. Earlier, AES was categorized as infectious and non-infectious encephalitis keeping a major focus on Japanese encephalitis (JE). However, successful immunization against JE has reduced mortality. Nevertheless, AES is still predominant and has its role in neurological diseases burden. Recent etiological studies have explored that various viral and non-viral entities contributing to the current burden of AES by their unique mechanisms which are yet to be properly understood. Moreover, the incidence of AES can differ according to seasonal and geographical variances. Hence, in the present review, we will discuss the pathophysiology, incidence, and prevalence of AES in light of different causative agents. In addition, various risk factors and comorbidities associated with AES will also be discussed. Understanding the major causes of AES may help in the discovery of future therapeutic strategies to manage its high burden.