Studying Acute Infectious Encephalitis and Myelitis in Guadeloupe Using Advanced Genetic Testing to Identify Causes

What this Trial Is About

Encephalitis and myelitis involve inflammation or infection of the brain or spinal cord. In Guadeloupe, many cases of these acute infectious conditions do not have an identified cause despite suspicion of infection. This research aims to use next-generation sequencing NGS to better identify the germs involved, especially since traditional methods often fail to find the pathogen. Understanding the causes is important because these conditions have serious health impacts and some may be specific to tropical regions like Guadeloupe. The study is observational and will prospectively examine patients diagnosed with encephalitis or myelitis at the University Hospital of Guadeloupe. It includes diagnostic methods such as NGS when initial tests do not reveal the cause. The study will collect data on clinical, imaging, and laboratory findings over time, including follow-ups at baseline, 15 days, 3 months, and 12 months. Patients will undergo neuroimaging, bacteriological and biochemical tests, and neuropsychological assessments during these periods. Participants will be monitored with several evaluations including pathogen identification, neurological exams, and brain scans at multiple time points up to one year. Researchers will track the presence of neurotropic pathogens and study clinical and neuropsychological outcomes to improve understanding of these serious diseases. The study will provide detailed epidemiological data and long-term outcome information, with total participation lasting up to 12 months.

Acute Infectious Encephalitis and Myelitis in Guadeloupe by New Generation Sequencing