Abstract-Caveolins (Cav), the principal structural proteins of the caveolar domains, have been implicated in the pathogenesis of ischemic injury. Indeed, changes in caveolin expression and localization have been reported in renal and myocardial ischemia. Genetic ablation of the Cav-1 gene in mice was further shown to increase the extent of ischemic injury in a model of hindlimb ischemia. However, the role of Cav-1 in the pathogenesis of cerebral ischemia remains unknown. Immunoblot and immunofluorescence analyses of rat brains subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion revealed marked increases in endothelial Cav-1 and Cav-2 protein levels.

Central nervous system (CNS) viral infections result in the clinical syndromes of aseptic meningitis or encephalitis. Although the primary target of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is the respiratory system, it is increasingly being recognized as a neuropathogen. The hallmark clinical feature is altered mental status, ranging from mild confusion to deep coma. Most patients with encephalopathy or encephalitis are critically ill. We present a case of COVID-19-related encephalitis who presented with acute delirium and new-onset seizures. The patient responded well to treatment with intravenous immunoglobulins and rituximab.