Semantic language deficit developing following herpes simplex encephalitis: reorganization "cannibalising" language centers?
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Updated: Oct 13, 2026

Utilizing Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to Improve Language Function in Stroke Patients with Chronic Non-fluent Aphasia
Published on: July 2, 2013
Simone Mangelsdorf1,2, Wendy Kelso1, Dennis Velakoulis1,3
1a Neuropsychiatry Unit , Royal Melbourne Hospital , Melbourne , Australia.
Abstract:
Herpes simplex virus encephalitis (HSVE) commonly presents with severe amnesia due to virus-mediated destruction of key regions in the temporal lobes, although language and executive impairment has been described. Little is known however of the long-term cognitive changes in these patients, including changes that may happen with cortical reorganization. We describe a patient with HSVE who presented with a highly unusual late-onset language syndrome, which may reflect distal cortical changes after her original injury.
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