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Updated: Jun 18, 2026

A Primary Neuron Culture System for the Study of Herpes Simplex Virus Latency and Reactivation

A Primary Neuron Culture System for the Study of Herpes Simplex Virus Latency and Reactivation

Published on: April 2, 2012

Altered mental status from acyclovir.

Gabriel J Martinez-Diaz¹, Renee Hsia

¹Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA.

The Journal of Emergency Medicine

|November 21, 2009

Summary

Acyclovir (ACV) can cause serious neurological toxicity in patients with kidney disease if not properly dosed. This case highlights the importance of renal dosing and monitoring ACV levels to prevent adverse effects.

Area of Science:

Pharmacology
Nephrology
Neurology

Background:

Acyclovir is a common antiviral medication for herpes virus infections.
Prompt acyclovir treatment can accelerate healing and reduce pain in herpes zoster.

Observation:

A 65-year-old man with chronic kidney disease developed confusion and ataxia.
The patient had recently started acyclovir for a rash.
Symptoms resolved after dialysis, suggesting acyclovir toxicity.

Findings:

Inappropriate acyclovir dosing occurred in a patient with impaired kidney function.
Neurological sequelae resulted from acyclovir toxicity.
Renal dosing and drug level monitoring are crucial for patients with kidney disease.

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Implications:

Healthcare providers must be aware of acyclovir's potential for serious side effects.
Proper renal dosing and monitoring of acyclovir are essential to prevent toxicity.
Emergency physicians should consider acyclovir toxicity in patients with altered mental status and kidney disease.