Knowra Herpes simplex encephalitis Herpes simplex encephalitis Herpes simplex encephalitis is a severe brain inflammation caused most often by herpes simplex virus type 1. It can cause rapid neurological decline and requires prompt antiviral treatment.
Herpes simplex virus type 1 : A herpesvirus that commonly infects the mouth and can cause encephalitis by reaching the brain. It causes most cases and is the main target of acute antiviral therapy.
Acyclovir : An antiviral drug that inhibits replication of herpesviruses. Intravenous acyclovir is the standard initial treatment and should begin when the disease is suspected.
Herpes simplex encephalitis in adults : Herpes simplex encephalitis occurring in adult patients, commonly with fever, confusion, seizures, or focal deficits. The adult presentation often combines behavioral change with temporal-lobe signs.
Neurological sequelae : Persistent neurological impairments remaining after a disease or injury to the nervous system. Survivors may have lasting memory, language, behavioral, or seizure-related problems.
Temporal lobe : A cerebral lobe involved in memory, language, hearing, and emotion. The infection often damages medial temporal regions, producing characteristic symptoms and imaging findings.
Polymerase chain reaction : A laboratory method that amplifies specific DNA sequences for detection or analysis. CSF PCR is the principal test for detecting herpes simplex viral DNA.
Neonatal herpes simplex encephalitis : Central nervous system infection by herpes simplex virus in a newborn. Newborn disease differs in transmission, presentation, and treatment context from typical adult encephalitis.
Amnesia : Impaired ability to remember information or events. Damage to medial temporal structures can leave prominent memory deficits.
Herpes simplex encephalitis pathogenesis : The processes by which herpes simplex virus enters the central nervous system and injures brain tissue. Explains how viral reactivation or invasion leads to inflammation and neuronal damage.
Electroencephalography : A method for recording electrical activity produced by the brain. EEG can detect seizures and support diagnosis when temporal-lobe abnormalities are present.
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