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Fatal case of echovirus type 9 encephalitis
M A Zuckerman1, M Sheaff, J E Martin
1Division of Virology, University College and Middlesex School of Medicine, London.
Journal of Clinical Pathology
|September 1, 1993
Summary
This case report details a rare fatal infection caused by echovirus type 9 in a 9-month-old boy, highlighting enteroviruses as uncommon causes of acute focal encephalitis.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Enteroviruses are recognized as infrequent etiologies of acute focal encephalitis.
- Echovirus infections, while generally mild, can occasionally lead to severe neurological complications.
Observation:
- A 9-month-old boy presented with fever and a macular rash.
- The child subsequently experienced two focal seizures, indicative of neurological involvement.
- Echovirus type 9 was identified as the causative agent.
Findings:
- The case demonstrates a fatal outcome associated with echovirus type 9 infection.
- Echovirus type 9 was isolated from lung tissue, suggesting systemic involvement.
- The clinical presentation included fever, rash, and focal seizures.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential severity of echovirus infections, even in young children.
- It highlights the importance of considering enteroviruses in the differential diagnosis of acute focal encephalitis.
- Further research into the pathogenesis and management of severe echovirus encephalitis is warranted.