Variability in the diagnosis of encephalitis by pediatric subspecialists: The need for a uniform definition

Abstract

Research definitions of encephalitis vary widely. When surveyed on the criteria used in clinical diagnosis, 88 pediatric specialists demonstrated diverse responses, with pediatric neurologists and pediatric infectious disease specialists differing significantly in their consideration of cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis and abnormal neuroimaging. Results emphasize the need for a uniform definition. © The Author 2012. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society. All rights reserved.