Acute encephalopathy and status epilepticus associated with human herpes virus 6 infection

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A Primary Neuron Culture System for the Study of Herpes Simplex Virus Latency and Reactivation
12:22

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Published on: April 2, 2012

C M Jones1, H G Dunn, E E Thomas

  • 1Division of Infectious Diseases, British Columbia's Children's Hospital, Vancouver, Canada.

Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology
|July 1, 1994
PubMed

Insights

Human herpes virus 6 (HHV-6) infection can cause febrile status epilepticus in young children. This case highlights the importance of considering HHV-6 in pediatric encephalopathy with seizures.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Virology

Background:

  • Febrile status epilepticus (FSE) is a medical emergency in infants and young children.
  • Encephalopathy can be a serious complication of FSE.
  • Human herpes virus 6 (HHV-6) is a common viral pathogen in young children.

Observation:

  • A previously healthy 22-month-old boy presented with FSE, high fever, and coma.
  • Seizures resolved with anticonvulsants, and fever normalized within 24 hours.
  • The child developed a rash consistent with roseola infantum on day three.

Findings:

  • Acute HHV-6 infection was confirmed serologically.
  • HHV-6 DNA was initially undetectable in CSF and serum but later found in saliva.
  • The patient experienced a slow recovery from encephalopathy.

Implications:

  • HHV-6 infection should be considered in the differential diagnosis of FSE in infants and young children.
  • Understanding the pathogenesis of HHV-6-associated encephalopathy is crucial for clinical management.
  • Early diagnosis and consideration of viral etiologies can guide treatment and improve outcomes.

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