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[Confusion and unexplained fever in an elderly man: a case report]
Revue Medicale De Liege
|November 18, 2008
Summary
A positive PCR for herpes virus confirmed herpes virus meningoencephalitis in an 81-year-old man presenting with confusion and hyperthermia. Temporal lobe necrosis on CT scan highlighted this severe neurologic emergency.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neuroimaging
Background:
- Herpes virus meningoencephalitis is a rare but severe neurological emergency.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for patient outcomes.
Observation:
- An 81-year-old male presented with confusion and unexplained hyperthermia.
- Initial examinations, including CT scan and lumbar puncture, were inconclusive.
- Meningeal signs were absent.
Findings:
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for herpes virus returned highly positive.
- Cerebral CT scan revealed temporal lobe necrosis, characteristic of herpes virus meningoencephalitis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering herpes virus meningoencephalitis in elderly patients with atypical neurological presentations.
- Advanced diagnostic techniques like PCR are vital for timely diagnosis.
- Prompt recognition and management of this condition can prevent severe neurological sequelae.
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