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A human case of encephalitis associated with vesicular stomatitis virus (Indiana serotype) infection

E Quiroz1, N Moreno, P H Peralta

  • 1Gorgas Memorial Laboratory, Panama City, Republic of Panama.

The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
|September 1, 1988
PubMed

Insights

Vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) infection can cause severe encephalitis in children, as seen in a Panamanian boy infected with the Indiana serotype. This case highlights the potential for VSV to cause serious neurological disease in humans.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Entomology
  • Virology
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • Vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) is a common pathogen in tropical Americas, typically causing mild symptoms in humans.
  • Encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain, can result from various viral infections.
  • Previous reports have suggested a link between VSV and neurological illness, but severe cases in children are rare.

Observation:

  • A 3-year-old boy in Panama presented with severe encephalitis.
  • The Indiana serotype of VSV was isolated from the patient's throat.
  • Diagnostic tests confirmed a rise in neutralizing antibodies against VSV.

Findings:

  • The case represents the second documented instance of VSV-associated encephalitis in a child.
  • The Indiana serotype of VSV was identified as the causative agent.
  • The patient's clinical presentation and laboratory results confirmed a severe neuroinvasive infection.

Implications:

  • VSV infection should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pediatric encephalitis, especially in endemic regions.
  • This case underscores the potential for VSV to cause severe, life-threatening neurological disease.
  • Further research is needed to understand the pathogenesis of VSV encephalitis and identify risk factors.

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