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Updated: May 27, 2026

Translational Orthotopic Models of Glioblastoma Multiforme
Published on: February 17, 2023
Glioblastoma mimicking herpes simplex encephalitis
Tai-Seung Nam1, Kang-Ho Choi, Myeong-Kyu Kim
1Department of Neurology, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Korea.
Abstract:
We report a case of 70-year-old man with glioblastoma presenting as acute encephalitic illness. The patient exhibited sudden onset of cognitive impairment and headache for 2 days. Initial brain MRI showed left temporal lobe hyperintensity, and cerebrospinal fluid cytology revealed a mild pleocytosis. The patient had initially improved after medical treatment with a presumptive diagnosis of herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE). After 8 months, the patient complained of recurrent seizures. A follow-up brain MRI revealed marked increases in size and surrounding perilesional edema in the left temporal lesion on T2-weighted images and a new contrast-enhancing lesion on gadolinium-enhanced T1-weighted images. Stereotactic brain biopsy revealed a glioblastoma. The atypical encephalitic presentation of glioblastoma should be considered if definitive evidence for the diagnosis of HSE cannot be obtained.
Insights
Glioblastoma can mimic herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE), presenting as acute encephalitic illness. Early diagnosis is crucial, as glioblastoma may initially improve with HSE treatment before recurrence.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Neurology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Glioblastoma is a primary brain tumor with a poor prognosis.
- Encephalitic presentations of glioblastoma are rare and can mimic infectious etiologies.
- Herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE) is a treatable viral infection that can cause acute neurological symptoms.
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