G36.1: Acute and subacute haemorrhagic leukoencephalitis [Hurst]

The brain is made up of several areas. For example, the cerebrum is used to think and plan actions. In the cerebellum, movements are initialized and coordinated. The brain stem is responsible for various unconscious tasks such as breathing. The brain stem passes into the spinal cord. The spinal cord is located in the spinal column. The spinal cord is made up of nerve fibers. The brain uses the nerve fibers to exchange information with the organs, skin and muscles.

Your brain or spinal cord has become inflamed because your immune system is attacking your brain or spinal cord. The immune system normally protects the body against pathogens and foreign substances. With some disorders, however, parts of the immune system target the body's own tissue or cells. The brain and spinal cord can become inflamed in this way after being infected by pathogens, for example. With this condition, the blood vessels in the brain or spinal cord also get damaged. Bloody spots can then occur in the brain or spinal cord. The tissue in the brain or spinal cord may also die off in some places.

Typical symptoms are, initially, fever and headaches. You may feel sleepy or fall unconscious. Your own thoughts or behavior can change. You may also have seizures. You may also no longer be able to move parts of your body properly, for example. There may also be various other symptoms. You may be seriously ill.