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Herpes simplex (HSV-1) encephalitis in an infant: a case report study
Parmis Sadat Hosseini1, Saeed Golfiroozi2, Parnian Sadat Hosseini1
1Neonatal and Children's Health Research Center.
Annals of Medicine and Surgery (2012)
|June 7, 2024
Summary
Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) encephalitis is a severe brain infection. Early recognition and prompt antiviral treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in affected children and adults.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a leading cause of acute sporadic encephalitis, a severe human disease.
- Untreated HSV encephalitis carries high mortality and morbidity rates.
Observation:
- An 11-month-old infant presented with fever, seizures, and focal neurological deficits.
- Brain MRI revealed characteristic lesions, and HSV-1 was confirmed via PCR.
- Bilateral otomastoiditis was also detected during diagnostic workup.
Findings:
- Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) encephalitis diagnosis was confirmed in an infant.
- The case highlights varied clinical presentations and diagnostic challenges.
- Acyclovir remains a key treatment, but outcomes can be variable.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and prompt antiviral therapy are critical for managing HSV-1 encephalitis.
- This case underscores the importance of timely intervention in suspected encephalitis cases.
- Understanding HSV strains (HSV-1 vs. HSV-2) is vital for appropriate patient management.
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