Tick-borne encephalitis. Clinical characteristics and therapy

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is caused by the TBE virus, which is mainly transmitted by ticks. TBE is endemic in widespread areas of Europe and is one of the most common forms of viral meningitis and encephalitis in childhood. In about 70% of infected children the disease manifests as isolated meningitis, while about 30% develop meningoencephalitis; in isolated cases, meningoencephalomyelitis is observed. A causal therapy is not yet available. In contrast to adults the prognosis of TBE in children is nearly always favourable. In some cases, however, long-lasting headache and disturbances of concentration are observed. In rare cases there are permanent neurologic sequelae.