A case of herpes simplex virus induced peripheral neuropathy and encephalitis with positive GM3 and CASPR2 antibody

We reported on a case involving an older patient with HSV-1 encephalitis who simultaneously experienced the onset of peripheral nerve symptoms associated with the presence of anti-GM3 immunoglobulin G (IgG).

A 77-year-old male was admitted to hospital with high fever, weakness of both lower limbs, and an unstable gait. A CSF test revealed a strikingly increased protein level (1,002 mg/L, normative values: 150-450 mg/L) and MRI revealed hyper-signal lesions in the right temporal lobe, right hippocampus, right insula, and right cingulate gyrus. The CSF was positive for HSV PCR (HSV-1,17870). In addition, the serum samples were positive for CASPR2 antibodies (antibody titer: 1/10) and anti-GM3 immunoglobulin G (IgG) (+). The patient was diagnosed with HSV-1-induced peripheral nerve symptoms that were associated with encephalitis and the presence of anti-GM3 IgG and anti-CASPR2 antibodies. The patient had received included intravenous immunoglobulin, intravenous acyclovir, and corticosteroids therapy. At the one-year follow-up examination, he had regained the necessary skills associated with daily life.

Herpes simplex virus infection often induces encephalitis, and reaction to the virus may trigger an autoimmune response. Early diagnosis and treatment can avoid the progression of the disease to include autoimmune encephalitis.