3rd November 2021

An 8-year-old boy presents to A+E with a reduced GCS, lethargy and fever

An 8-year-old boy presents to A+E with a reduced GCS, lethargy and fever. His GCS is calculated as 6. He had suffered a seizure at home. The patient has no known diagnosis of epilepsy. Prior to this episode, the patient had complained of a flu-like illness over the past couple of weeks. The doctor suspects a diagnosis of encephalitis and would like to order an investigation. What investigation is the doctor likely to request to confirm their suspicion?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.