Which term is inflammation of the brain usually caused by a virus?

• A. Encephalitis
• B. Concussion
• C. Meningitis
• D. Hypochondriasis

Answer: (A)

Inflammation of brain tissue is encephalitis, and it is usually caused by a viral infection. When the brain swells due to this inflammation, a person can experience fever, headache, confusion, seizures, or changes in consciousness. This condition is distinct from meningitis, which is inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord; a concussion is a brain injury from trauma without inflammation, and hypochondriasis is a mental health concern about illness. Because the description focuses on brain inflammation typically linked to a virus, encephalitis is the best fit.