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Updated: Jul 2, 2026

A Primary Neuron Culture System for the Study of Herpes Simplex Virus Latency and Reactivation
Published on: April 2, 2012
Acute hydrocephalus secondary to herpes simplex type II meningitis
Peter A Heppner1, Patrick M Schweder, Stephen J Monteith
1Department of Neurosurgery, Auckland City Hospital, Grafton Road, Auckland, New Zealand. peterheppner@hotmail.com
Abstract:
A 34-year-old woman presented with a rapid onset of meningitic symptoms. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from a lumbar puncture revealed a leucocytosis with a preponderance of monocytes, elevated protein and reduced glucose. Herpes simplex virus (HSV) type II was subsequently confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of CSF. The patient's level of consciousness deteriorated and a CT scan revealed hydrocephalus. The patient required placement of an external ventricular drain for 5 days; however, she made a full recovery without specific antiviral therapy. This is the first reported case of hydrocephalus secondary to isolated HSV type II meningitis.
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