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Updated: Aug 30, 2025
A Unified Methodological Framework for Vestibular Schwannoma Research
Published on: June 20, 2017
Herpes simplex meningitis after vestibular schwannoma surgery: illustrative case
Leonidas Trakolis1, Georgios Naros1, Vassilios Vougioukas2
1Department of Neurosurgery, Eberhardt Karls University, Tuebingen, Germany; and.
Background:
Herpes is the most common cause of viral encephalitis in the young population. Herpes meningitis following brain surgery is very rare, however. Only a few cases are reported in the literature, and only one concerned an infection after vestibular schwannoma surgery.
Observations:
The authors report a case of a 44-year-old patient who developed severe herpes meningitis a few days after removal of a large cystic vestibular schwannoma.
Lessons:
Herpes simplex virus meningitis following a posterior fossa surgery must be considered when patients develop atypical symptoms a few days after surgery.
Insights
Herpes meningitis is a rare complication after brain surgery, particularly vestibular schwannoma removal. Early consideration of herpes simplex virus is crucial for patients with atypical symptoms post-surgery.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a common cause of viral encephalitis in young individuals.
- Meningitis caused by HSV following brain surgery is exceptionally rare.
- Literature review reveals limited cases, with only one prior instance linked to vestibular schwannoma surgery.
Observation:
- A case report details a 44-year-old patient who developed severe herpes meningitis shortly after the surgical removal of a large cystic vestibular schwannoma.
- The patient presented with atypical symptoms a few days post-operation.
Findings:
- Herpes simplex virus meningitis can occur as a rare complication after posterior fossa surgery.
- The clinical presentation may include atypical symptoms that warrant further investigation.
Implications:
- Neurosurgeons and infectious disease specialists should consider HSV meningitis in the differential diagnosis for patients with unexplained neurological symptoms after posterior fossa surgery.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment of HSV meningitis are critical for favorable patient outcomes.
