Encephalitis

Music and Lyrics by Arie Perry, M.D.

Microglial activation and nodule formation
Along with neuronophagia and perivascular lymphocytes
Meningoencephalitis or encephalomyelitis
Depending on extent of disease
There’s a range of liabilities


CHORUS:
Viral encephalitis, there are two major kinds
In the arthropod associated, no inclusions you’ll find
But in herpes encephalitis, Cowdry A is the sign
Red inclusion with a clear halo, is how it’s defined


CHORUS

With herpes encephalitis, temporal lobe is the nidus
Imaginary senses of smell is a common type of spell
It’s often necrotizing, the damage is agonizing
As you wait for CSF PCR
Acyclovir will make you a star

CHORUS

In AIDS dementia complex, with mental and motor deficits
Multinucleated giant cells, a diagnostic feature that compels
CMV is a TORCH infection, that inspires your recollection
Of AIDS and perinatal disease
Ependymitis brings them to their knees

CHORUS