<unk>  is an acute inflammation of the brain, commonly caused by a<unk>  infection. Diagnosis is often made with detection of antibodies against specific<unk>  agent (such as herpes simplex virus) or by polymerase chain reaction that amplifies the RNA or DNA of the virus responsible. Other lab tests that might be useful are  complete blood count with differential, coagulation profile, serum electrolyte, urine electrolyte, serum glucose, blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine levels (to rule out confusion due to dehydration), liver function test (to rule out hepatic involvement), lumbar puncture and CSF examination.
Viral encephalitis laboratory findings
Viral meningitis laboratory findings
Bacterial meningitis laboratory findings
Tick-borne encephalitis laboratory findings
Fungal meningitis laboratory findings
Viral encephalitis physical examination
St. Louis encephalitis laboratory findings
Viral meningitis physical examination