Herpes encephalitis

Encephalitis is a condition where the brain becomes inflamed due to a virus or other types of infections. One kind of virus that can cause encephalitis is herpes simplex type 1. Although herpes simplex type I most often causes mild symptoms like fever blisters, it can occasionally travel to the brain and cause encephalitis.

Herpes simplex I is a very common virus that causes small blisters or "cold sores" on the lips, inside the nose, in the eye, or on the eyelid. Occasionally, it is possible for the virus to move to the brain from the nasal cavity through the sinuses. This can result in encephalitis.

The symptoms of herpes simplex encephalitis can include:

• a sore throat
• fever
• headache
• stiff neck
• runny nose
• vomiting
• drowsiness
• hyperactivity and
• general weakness

As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms such as personality changes, paralysis, hallucinations, convulsions, and coma can occur. If left untreated, herpes encephalitis can result in death. There are antiviral drugs available to treat herpes infections. With treatment, the death rate is greatly reduced; however there may be permanent neurological problems.

If you suspect that you have herpes encephalitis, it is very important that you contact your healthcare provider immediately. Proper diagnosis and prompt treatment are necessary.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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