infectious diseases
Baylisascariasis
Diagnosis of Baylisascariasis
MRI Antibody tests Encephalitis should be considered in patients with sudden onset of eosinophilic encephalitis and a history of possible exposure to raccoons and/or to areas where racoons defecate (eg, possibly resulting in ingestion of raccoon feces or contaminated soil). Characteristic findings include cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) eosinophilic pleocytosis, peripheral eosinophilia, and deep, especially periventricular, white matter abnormalities seen on an MRI scan. Diagnosis of baylisascariasis is difficult because serologic tests are not commercially available, but CSF or serum can be tested for antibodies at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) if the index of suspicion is high. Viewing a larva during ocular examination is also a clue. 