Volume 9, Number 12—December 2003
Historical Review
Alexander the Great and West Nile Virus Encephalitis
John S. Marr* and Charles H. Calisher
Table
Medical history and physical examination of Alexander the Great
| Patient characteristics | Medical history | Clinical symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Male Born in Macedonia 32 years of age Soldier Heavy drinking Frequent bathing Married to many wives One son | Ten years before death, traveled widely (Mediterranean, North Africa, and Middle East) Unexplained fever 5 years previously Penetrating right chest wound one year before final illness Onset of final illness May 29, 323 BC Death June 10, 323 BC | Escalating fever associated with chills Excessive thirst, diaphoresis Acute abdominal pain Single episode of back pain at of onset of fever Increased weakness leading to prostration with intermittent periods of energy Delirium Aphonia Terminal flaccid paralysis |
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