Can herpes simplex virus cause encephalitis?
Can herpes simplex virus cause encephalitis?
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is the cause of acute viral encephalitis in 50–70% of cases where a virus can be identified [ 1 ]. Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 can cause encephalitis (HSE), which is predominantly located in the temporal lobes and the limbic system.
What is herpes simplex virus (HSV) brain ischemia?
Brain ischemia is mostly related to multifocal cerebral large vessel vasculitis associated with HSV-2, where the outcome is more favorable. Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is the cause of acute viral encephalitis in 50–70% of cases where a virus can be identified [ 1 ].
When is CSF HSV-2 PCR indicated in the workup of viral encephalitis?
Patients thought to have viral encephalitis, but with normal imaging or negative CSF HSV-1 PCR, should also have CSF HSV-2 PCR performed. Because untreated HSE carries with it a 70% mortality rate, neurologists should maintain a high level of clinical suspicion in such cases.
What are the diagnostic criteria for encephalitis?
Diagnosis Diagnosis. Listen. Diagnosis of autoimmune encephalitis can be made when all three of the following criteria have been met: 1. Subacute onset (rapid progression of less than 3 months) of working memory deficits (short-term memory loss), altered mental status, or psychiatric symptoms.
