Mumps meningitis: electroencephalography and leukocyte migration inhibition by basic myelin protein.

In 20 patients with mumps meningitis, electroencephalography and leukocyte migration inhibition tests with basic myelin protein were carried out. Fourteen patients had mild or moderate EEG abnormalities indicative of encephalitis as well. Cellular reactivity to basic myelin protein was found in 4 cases only. The observations support the concept that mumps meningoencephalitis is a consequence of a direct viral impact onto the nervous tissue, i.e. no neuroallergic mechanisms are involved.