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[Meningomyelitis associated with infection by human herpes virus 7: report of two cases]

Marcelo Miranda C1, Juan Pablo Torres T, Carmen Larrañaga L

  • 1Departamento Neurología, Clínica Las Condes, Santiago, Chile. marcelomirandac@gmail.com

Revista Medica De Chile
|March 27, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Human herpesvirus 7 (HHV-7) can cause serious neurological conditions like encephalomyelitis and meningitis in immunocompetent adults. Early diagnosis and treatment led to full recovery in two reported cases, highlighting HHV-7 as a potential pathogen.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Virology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Human herpesvirus 7 (HHV-7) is a known pathogen, but its role in causing neurological disease in immunocompetent adults is less understood.
  • Encephalomyelitis and meningitis are serious neurological conditions affecting the brain and spinal cord.

Observation:

  • Two immunocompetent adult males presented with distinct neurological symptoms.
  • Patient 1: paraparesis and sensory deficiency; CSF analysis revealed 35 WBC/mm³ and 75 mg/dL protein; HHV-7 PCR-microarray positive.
  • Patient 2: headache, fever, and diarrhea; CSF analysis revealed 160 WBC/mm³ and 75 mg/dL protein; HHV-7 RNA detected.

Findings:

  • Both patients were diagnosed with HHV-7 infection manifesting as neurological illness.
  • Patient 1 recovered fully after treatment with prednisolone and ganciclovir.
  • Patient 2 was diagnosed with viral meningitis and recovered with supportive care.

Implications:

  • These cases suggest HHV-7 can be a causative agent of encephalomyelitis and meningitis in immunocompetent individuals.
  • The findings support considering HHV-7 as a significant pathogen in adult neurological disorders.
  • Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for favorable outcomes in HHV-7-associated neurological diseases.

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