encephalomyelitis /ensef′əlōmī′əlī″tis/ [Gk, enkephalos + myelos, marrow, itis] , an inflammatory condition of the brain and spinal cord that damages myelin, characterized by fever, headache, stiff neck, back pain, and vomiting. Depending on the cause, the age and condition of the person, and the extent of the inflammation and irritation to the central nervous system, seizures, paralysis, personality changes, a decreased level of consciousness, coma, or death may occur. Sequelae, such as seizure disorders or decreased mental ability, may occur after severe inflammation that causes extensive damage to the cells and tissues of the nervous system. See also acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, encephalitis, equine encephalitis.
