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Updated: Jun 12, 2026
12:22
A Primary Neuron Culture System for the Study of Herpes Simplex Virus Latency and Reactivation
Published on: April 2, 2012
Dementia following herpes zoster encephalitis
Katherine J Bangen1, Lisa Delano-Wood, Christina E Wierenga
1San Diego State University/University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
The Clinical Neuropsychologist
|May 27, 2010
Summary
This study details a rare case of dementia in an older adult after herpes zoster encephalitis (HZE). Early HZE detection and treatment may preserve long-term cognitive function.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuroscience
- Geriatric Medicine
Background:
- Herpes zoster encephalitis (HZE) is a rare but serious complication of varicella-zoster virus reactivation.
- Dementia following HZE is not well-documented, particularly in older adults.
Observation:
- A 71-year-old female patient presented with dementia symptoms approximately one year after resolving an acute HZE episode.
- Comprehensive neuropsychological testing revealed significant deficits in memory, executive functions, processing speed, and attention.
Findings:
- Neuroimaging showed moderate brain volume loss (central and perisylvian regions), subcortical white matter lesions, and reduced brain and hippocampal perfusion.
- These structural and functional changes correlate with the observed cognitive impairments.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for HZE to cause a progressive dementia syndrome in older adults.
- Early diagnosis and intervention for HZE are crucial for mitigating long-term cognitive decline and preserving brain health.
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