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Severe Usutu Virus Encephalitis Treated With Corticosteroids: A Case Report
Stefania Casolari1, Deborah Lusetti1, Elena Martini1
1Infectious Diseases Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy, unimore.it.
Case Reports in Infectious Diseases
|July 25, 2026
Summary
Usutu virus (USUV) causes neuroinvasive disease in humans, particularly the elderly. This case highlights severe meningoencephalitis and discusses the potential impact of steroid treatment on arboviral encephalitis outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Neuroscience
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Usutu virus (USUV) is a neurotropic flavivirus related to West Nile virus (WNV).
- It circulates via a bird-mosquito cycle, with occasional human infections reported in Europe.
- While often asymptomatic, USUV can cause neuroinvasive disease, especially in vulnerable populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of severe USUV meningoencephalitis in an elderly patient.
- To discuss the potential role of dexamethasone treatment in arboviral encephalitis.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a severe USUV meningoencephalitis.
- Literature review on arboviral encephalitis pathogenesis and steroid use.
Main Results:
- The patient experienced severe meningoencephalitis following USUV infection.
- The potential influence of a short course of dexamethasone on the disease course is considered.
Conclusions:
- USUV poses a significant threat, causing severe neuroinvasive disease in susceptible individuals.
- The role of corticosteroids in managing arboviral encephalitis warrants further investigation.
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