What condition is characterized by inflammation of the brain's tissues?

Encephalitis is specifically characterized by inflammation of the brain's tissues. This condition can arise from various causes, including viral infections, autoimmune diseases, and other factors. The inflammation can lead to symptoms such as fever, headache, confusion, seizures, and in severe cases, can result in significant neurological damage or complications.

Understanding this definition is crucial for recognizing the distinction between different neurological conditions. For example, cerebral palsy refers to a group of disorders affecting motor control and coordination due to damage to the developing brain, not inflammation. Neuritis involves inflammation of peripheral nerves, which can cause pain and weakness but does not involve the brain tissue itself. Meningitis, on the other hand, is the inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, known as the meninges, which is a different condition than encephalitis that specifically targets the brain tissue.