Abstract | BACKGROUND: OBJECTIVES: METHODS: Eight subjects with WNV encephalitis were treated with supportive therapy and 5 days of IVIG 0.4 g/kg/day containing high WNV antibodies obtained from healthy blood donors. RESULTS: Patients who were treated with IVIG as soon as possible exhibited an improvement in their symptoms. All subjects presented with high fever, progressive confusion and headaches, nausea and vomiting. The Glasgow Coma Screen for six patients ranged between 8 and 13 and all were discharged with a score of 15. The remaining two subjects died during their hospitalization. CONCLUSIONS: In severe WNV infection, where the disease affects the central and/or peripheral nervous system, early intervention with IVIG together with supportive treatment is recommended.
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Authors | Badira Makhoul, Eyal Braun, Moshe Herskovitz, Rawi Ramadan, Salim Hadad, Krivoy Norberto |
Journal | The Israel Medical Association journal : IMAJ
(Isr Med Assoc J)
Vol. 11
Issue 3
Pg. 151-3
(Mar 2009)
ISSN: 1565-1088 [Print] Israel |
PMID | 19544704
(Publication Type: Journal Article)
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Chemical References |
- Immunoglobulins, Intravenous
- Immunologic Factors
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Topics |
- Female
- Glasgow Coma Scale
- Humans
- Immunoglobulins, Intravenous
(therapeutic use)
- Immunologic Factors
(therapeutic use)
- Length of Stay
- Male
- West Nile Fever
(therapy)
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