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Updated: Dec 21, 2025
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A Primary Neuron Culture System for the Study of Herpes Simplex Virus Latency and Reactivation
Published on: April 2, 2012
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Herpes Simplex Virus 2 Meningoencephalitis-Associated Bilateral Optic Neuritis and Radiculitis
William L Conte1, Faten El Ammar1, Asadolah Movahedan2
1Department of Neurology, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
Neuro-Ophthalmology (Aeolus Press)
|May 13, 2020
Summary
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) can cause severe vision loss. A rare case of HSV-2 meningoencephalitis led to optic neuritis, but steroids and IVIG rapidly restored the patient's vision.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) commonly causes ocular complications, with acute retinal necrosis being the most frequent.
- Meningoencephalitis is a serious neurological condition often associated with HSV infections.
Observation:
- A rare case involved a patient diagnosed with HSV-2 meningoencephalitis.
- This patient subsequently developed severe, vision-threatening optic neuritis.
Findings:
- The optic neuritis associated with HSV-2 meningoencephalitis presented as a severe, vision-threatening complication.
- Treatment with corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) resulted in a rapid improvement of visual function.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare but severe ocular manifestation of HSV-2 meningoencephalitis.
- Prompt treatment with steroids and IVIG can be effective in managing vision loss due to HSV-induced optic neuritis.
