Is Herpes Simplex Encephalitis in Immunocompromised Patients Different?

A comparison of clinical findings, neuroimaging, and outcomes in immunocompromised versus immunocompetent patients with HSE suggests important differences.

Herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE) is a very serious disease with an incidence of 1 in 250,000 to 1 in 500,000. With the introduction of new and more potent immunosuppressive therapies, HSE is seen more often with an atypical presentation. In this retrospective case-control review of adult patients with HSE diagnoses, researchers compared features and outcomes in 14 patients who were immunocompromised and 15 who were immunocompetent.

Clinical features, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) findings were different in the two groups. Fewer immunocompromised patients had prodromal symptoms (29% vs. 80%) and focal deficits (about 28% vs. 73%). Mean time between symptom onset and presentation to the hospital was shorter i…

Reviewing Author

Jaime Toro, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsMultiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders

Jaime Toro, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsMultiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders