Abstract: ObjectiveTo explore the clinical features and early diagnosis of virus encephalitis with mental disorder as initial symptoms.MethodsThe materials of 46 cases of virus encephalitis with mental disorder as initial symptoms from 1999 to 2003 were analyzed retrospectively.ResultsAfter antivirus treatment, most patients had good prognosis, only one patient who had fever and coma suddenly two weeks after onset was in vegetative statement.ConclusionTo the patients beginning with acute mental disorder, if they have infection, diarrhea, over-fatigue, oral herpes before disease and exhibit intelligence retardation, incontinence of stool or urine, fever, epilepsy during disease course, it is necessary to complete relative examination and monitor the disease, so as to make sure the diagnosis and guide the treatment.

Key words: virus encephalitis, signs and symptoms of mental disorder, clinical features