Inflammation of the brain tissue, most commonly caused by viral infections, resulting in symptoms like fever, headache, confusion, seizures, and altered mental status. It can be life-threatening and may cause permanent neurological damage.
From Greek 'enkephalos' meaning 'brain' (literally 'in the head') and '-itis' meaning 'inflammation.' The term was introduced in medical literature during the 19th century as understanding of brain pathology advanced.
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