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Petersen PT, Bodilsen J, Jepsen MPG, Hansen BR, Storgaard M, Larsen L, Helweg-Larsen J, Wiese L, Lüttichau HR, Andersen CØ, Mogensen TH, Nielsen H, Brandt CT. Benign recurrent lymphocytic meningitis (Mollaret's meningitis) in Denmark: a nationwide cohort study. Eur J Neurol 2024; 31:e16081. [PMID: 37797296 DOI: 10.1111/ene.16081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Data on clinical features and outcomes of benign recurrent lymphocytic meningitis (BRLM) are limited. METHODS This was a nationwide population-based cohort study of all adults hospitalized for BRLM associated with herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) at the departments of infectious diseases in Denmark from 2015 to 2020. Patients with single-episode HSV-2 meningitis were included for comparison. RESULTS Forty-seven patients with BRLM (mean annual incidence 1.2/1,000,000 adults) and 118 with single-episode HSV-2 meningitis were included. The progression risk from HSV-2 meningitis to BRLM was 22% (95% confidence interval [CI] 15%-30%). The proportion of patients with the triad of headache, neck stiffness and photophobia/hyperacusis was similar between BRLM and single-episode HSV-2 meningitis (16/43 [37%] vs. 46/103 [45%]; p = 0.41), whilst the median cerebrospinal fluid leukocyte count was lower in BRLM (221 cells vs. 398 cells; p = 0.02). Unfavourable functional outcomes (Glasgow Outcome Scale score of 1-4) were less frequent in BRLM at all post-discharge follow-up visits. During the study period, 10 (21%) patients with BRLM were hospitalized for an additional recurrence (annual rate 6%, 95% CI 3%-12%). The hazard ratio for an additional recurrence was 3.93 (95% CI 1.02-15.3) for patients with three or more previous episodes of meningitis. CONCLUSIONS Clinical features of BRLM were similar to those of single-episode HSV-2 meningitis, whilst post-discharge outcomes were more favourable. Patients with three or more previous episodes of meningitis had higher risk of an additional recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pelle Trier Petersen
- Department of Pulmonary and Infectious Diseases, Nordsjaellands Hospital, Hillerød, Denmark
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jacob Bodilsen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | | | | | - Merete Storgaard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lykke Larsen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | | | - Lothar Wiese
- Department of Medicine, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
| | | | | | - Trine Hyrup Mogensen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Henrik Nielsen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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Update on Viral Infections Involving the Central Nervous System in Pediatric Patients. CHILDREN-BASEL 2021; 8:children8090782. [PMID: 34572214 PMCID: PMC8470393 DOI: 10.3390/children8090782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Infections of the central nervous system (CNS) are mainly caused by viruses, and these infections can be life-threatening in pediatric patients. Although the prognosis of CNS infections is often favorable, mortality and long-term sequelae can occur. The aims of this narrative review were to describe the specific microbiological and clinical features of the most frequent pathogens and to provide an update on the diagnostic approaches and treatment strategies for viral CNS infections in children. A literature analysis showed that the most common pathogens worldwide are enteroviruses, arboviruses, parechoviruses, and herpesviruses, with variable prevalence rates in different countries. Lumbar puncture (LP) should be performed as soon as possible when CNS infection is suspected, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples should always be sent for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. Due to the lack of specific therapies, the management of viral CNS infections is mainly based on supportive care, and empiric treatment against herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection should be started as soon as possible. Some researchers have questioned the role of acyclovir as an empiric antiviral in older children due to the low incidence of HSV infection in this population and observed that HSV encephalitis may be clinically recognizable beyond neonatal age. However, the real benefit-risk ratio of selective approaches is unclear, and further studies are needed to define appropriate indications for empiric acyclovir. Research is needed to find specific therapies for emerging pathogens. Moreover, the appropriate timing of monitoring neurological development, performing neuroimaging evaluations and investigating the effectiveness of rehabilitation during follow-up should be evaluated with long-term studies.
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Abstract
Infections of the nervous system are an important and challenging aspect of clinical neurology. Immediate correct diagnosis enables to introduce effective therapy, in conditions that without diagnosis may leave the patient with severe neurological incapacitation and sometimes even death. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a mirror that reflects nervous system pathology and can promote early diagnosis and therapy. The present chapter focuses on the CSF findings in neuro-infections, mainly viral and bacterial. Opening pressure, protein and glucose levels, presence of cells and type of the cellular reaction should be monitored. Other tests can also shed light on the causative agent: serology, culture, staining, molecular techniques such as polymerase chain reaction. Specific examination such as panbacterial and panfungal examinations should be examined when relevant. Our chapter is a guide-text that combines clinical presentation and course with CSF findings as a usuaful tool in diagnosis of neuroinfections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Benninger
- Department of Neurology, Rabin Medical Center, Petach Tikva, Israel
| | - Israel Steiner
- Department of Neurology, Rabin Medical Center, Petach Tikva, Israel
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Nakamura Y, Nakajima H, Kano Y, Unoda K, Ishida S, Kimura F. Herpes simplex virus type 2-associated recurrent aseptic meningitis (Mollaret's meningitis) with a recurrence after 11-year interval: a case report. Rinsho Shinkeigaku 2016; 56:785-787. [PMID: 27773908 DOI: 10.5692/clinicalneurol.cn-000950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
A 55-year-old woman was diagnosed with aseptic meningitis at the age of 43 and 44. She developed sudden fever and headache, and she showed nuchal rigidity. Cerebrospinal fluid examination revealed pleocytosis (cell count 208/mm3) and was positive for herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) DNA by PCR. Acyclovir was started on the first day of admission, and she was complete recovery. Preserved cerebrospinal fluid specimen from aseptic meningitis at the age of 44 was also positive for HSV-2 DNA by PCR. She was diagnosed with HSV-2 associated recurrent aseptic meningitis (Mollaret's meningitis) with a recurrence after 11-year interval. She repeatedly relapsed genital herpes after 44 years old and she was treated with valacyclovir whenever genital herpes relapses. But she showed no genital herpes at the onset of meningitis. Because HSV-2 is one of the most significant causes of recurrent meningitis, we would like to stress that HSV-2 infection and antiviral therapy should always be kept in mind for a recurrent meningitis case.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshitsugu Nakamura
- Division of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine I, Osaka Medical College
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5
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Kruis T, Kredel L, Nassir M, Godbersen M, Schneider T. Benigne rekurrierende aseptische Meningitis. Internist (Berl) 2016; 57:188-93. [DOI: 10.1007/s00108-015-0003-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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6
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Saleh M. In-hospital herpes simplex encephalitis after open heart surgery: an emerging pathology or an under-recognised condition? BMJ Case Rep 2013; 2013:bcr-2013-009737. [PMID: 23845676 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2013-009737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Two patients developed herpetic encephalitis after cardiopulmonary bypass for two different surgical indications. Diagnosis was extremely difficult. Both patients recovered under antiviral treatment despite late diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Saleh
- Department of Critical Care, Pitié Salpétrière Hospital, Paris, France.
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Coinfection with Rickettsia helvetica and Herpes Simplex Virus 2 in a Young Woman with Meningoencephalitis. Case Rep Infect Dis 2011; 2011:469194. [PMID: 22567472 PMCID: PMC3336230 DOI: 10.1155/2011/469194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2011] [Accepted: 08/15/2011] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Herpes virus type 2 DNA was detected by PCR in the cerebrospinal fluid in a young woman presenting with headache, stiff neck and pleocytosis, and serological findings consistent with reactivation. Since she was exposed to ticks, Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis were excluded. Further investigation in an ongoing project, using PCR and sequencing of the amplified products, showed the presence of Rickettsia helvetica in the cerebrospinal fluid. The bacteria were also isolated in Vero cell culture, and microimmunofluorescence confirmed the development of antibodies against Rickettsia spp. with predominance of IgM reactivity consistent with recent infection. She was treated with antibiotics and improved rapidly. The patient could easily have been judged to have isolated herpes meningitis. Because Sweden and other European countries are endemic areas for rickettsioses, the paper reaffirms the importance of investigating for the presence of rickettsial infections in endemic areas in cases of meningitis of uncertain aetiology.
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Recurrent meningitis in a teenager. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2010; 29:984, 988-9. [PMID: 20861759 DOI: 10.1097/inf.0b013e3181e29886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Kallio-Laine K, Seppänen M, Kautiainen H, Lokki ML, Lappalainen M, Valtonen V, Färkkilä M, Kalso E. Recurrent lymphocytic meningitis positive for herpes simplex virus type 2. Emerg Infect Dis 2009; 15:1119-22. [PMID: 19624935 PMCID: PMC2744243 DOI: 10.3201/eid1507.080716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We found the prevalence of recurrent lymphocytic meningitis associated with herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) was 2.2/100,000 population in Finland during 1996-2006, higher than previous estimates. PCR was most sensitive in detecting HSV-2 DNA from cerebrospinal fluid if the sample was taken 2-5 days after symptom onset.
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Abstract
While HSV-2 meningitis has been described in prepubertal children in the context of sexual abuse, to the best of our knowledge recurrent episodes have not been described in this population. We report a 9-y-old girl with recurrent HSV-2 meningitis presenting as aseptic meningitis without any evidence of genital herpes. A high index of suspicion for this condition would be needed to make a diagnosis in this age group, which in turn would guide further therapeutic decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Kumar
- Department of Pediatrics, State University of New York (SUNY), Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY 11203-2098, USA.
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11
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Herpes simplex virus type 2 (Mollaret's) meningitis: a case report. Int J Infect Dis 2009; 13:e476-9. [PMID: 19329344 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2009.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2008] [Revised: 12/17/2008] [Accepted: 01/03/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mollaret's meningitis is an unusual and under-appreciated syndrome of benign, recurrent aseptic meningitis. The available literature indicates that the causative agent is herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) in the majority of cases and much less frequently herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). CASE REPORT We report the case of a 49-year-old Indian female who had four attacks of recurrent lymphocytic meningitis (Mollaret's meningitis) occurring over a 7-year period. The diagnosis of herpes simplex meningitis was made at the time of the fourth episode by a positive PCR for herpes simplex virus infection in the cerebrospinal fluid. During the first three episodes, the patient was treated with anti-tuberculous drugs and antibiotics for bacterial meningitis; however for the last episode, once the diagnosis of herpes simplex meningitis was confirmed, only symptomatic treatment was given. No long-term suppressive therapy was given and no recurrence has been experienced so far. CONCLUSIONS Mollaret's meningitis should be suspected in all cases of recurrent lymphocytic meningitis. Early diagnosis may prevent prolonged hospital admissions, unnecessary investigations, and exposure to unnecessary medications, with the associated considerable costs. Treatment with acyclovir may be beneficial in decreasing the severity and duration of attacks and in preventing further episodes. [Au?1].
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12
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Binetruy C, Deback C, Roubaud-Baudron C, Agut H, Bricaire F, Bossi P. [Herpes simplex virus meningitis in 11 patients]. Med Mal Infect 2008; 38:141-5. [PMID: 18191515 DOI: 10.1016/j.medmal.2007.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2007] [Accepted: 11/11/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
METHOD We reviewed retrospectively the demographic, clinical, biological characteristics and outcomes of 11 patients with HSV meningitis. RESULTS Among the 11 patients, six were infected with HIV, four had a documented history of genital herpes, and one recurrent meningitis. In all cases, the onset of symptoms was abrupt, with severe headache and fever. On admission, 9/11 patients had severe meningismus; two patients had HSV anogenital ulcerations. CSF analysis showed in every case a significant increased of leukocytes with a lymphocytic pleocytosis, a mild elevated protein level and a normal glucose level. HSV was detected in the CSF in every case by PCR: the typing performed on six patients was positive in every case for HSV-2. Intravenous acyclovir (IV ACV) was started in 10/11 cases (range: 3-10 days), switched to valaciclovir (VACV) (range: 5-7 days); one patient was treated with ACV per os for 10 days. The total resolution of symptoms occurred within 48hours in every case. Two patients presented with recurrent HSV-2 meningitis in the next two months, with favorable outcome under IV ACV: a switch to long term VACV 500mg/day was prescribed without any recurrence. No patient presented with recurrence after a median follow-up of 30 months. CONCLUSION Early recognition and treatment might improve the outcome of such infections. Adjunctive oral VACV after IV ACV treatment seems to be associated with a good clinical response in patients presenting with HSV meningitis. The duration of such treatments, including prophylactic treatments to prevent recurrent episodes must be better documented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Binetruy
- Département de Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
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13
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Omland LH, Vestergaard BF, Wandall JH. Herpes simplex virus type 2 infections of the central nervous system: A retrospective study of 49 patients. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 40:59-62. [PMID: 17852910 DOI: 10.1080/00365540701509881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infections of the central nervous system (CNS) are rare with meningitis as the most common clinical presentation. We have investigated the clinical spectrum of CNS infections in 49 adult consecutive patients with HSV-2 genome in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). HSV-2 in the CSF was determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and patients were diagnosed as encephalitis or meningitis according to predefined clinical criteria by retrospective data information from consecutive clinical journals. The annual crude incidence rate of HSV-2 CNS disease was 0.26 per 100,000. 43 (88%) had meningitis of whom 8 (19%) had recurring lymphocytic meningitis. Six patients (12%) had encephalitis. 11 of 49 patients (22%) had sequelae recorded during follow-up. None died as a result of HSV-2 CNS disease. Thus, the clinical presentation of HSV-2 infection of the CNS is mainly meningitis but encephalitis does occur and neurological sequelae are common. Recurring lymphocytic meningitis is associated with reactivation of HSV-2 and the condition might be underdiagnosed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Haukali Omland
- From the Department of Infectious Diseases M, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
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14
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Gao B, Yang J, Zhuang S, Deng Y, Yang W, Yu Y, Wang Y, Luo L, Dai K. Mollaret meningitis associated with an intraspinal epidermoid cyst. Pediatrics 2007; 120:e220-4. [PMID: 17591765 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2006-2053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Mollaret meningitis, a benign recurrent aseptic disease, is known to be associated with intracranial epidermoid cysts. In this report, we describe a case of Mollaret meningitis caused by an intraspinal epidermoid cyst located at thoracic level 12. The patient's clinical manifestations and cerebrospinal fluid features were similar to those with bacterial meningitis characterized by predominant polymorphonuclear leukocytes. However, Mollaret cells, not bacteria, were identified in the patient's cerebrospinal fluid. The illness ceased after surgical resection of the cyst, and the cyst tissue was pathologically diagnosed as epidermoid. Therefore, an intraspinal epidermoid cyst can be etiologically associated with Mollaret meningitis and should be included in the differential diagnosis of recurrent aseptic meningitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoqin Gao
- Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital University of Medical Sciences, People's Republic of China.
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15
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Franzen-Röhl E, Tiveljung-Lindell A, Grillner L, Aurelius E. Increased detection rate in diagnosis of herpes simplex virus type 2 meningitis by real-time PCR using cerebrospinal fluid samples. J Clin Microbiol 2007; 45:2516-20. [PMID: 17567785 PMCID: PMC1951252 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.00141-07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Efficient and sensitive diagnostic methods are needed in the management of virus infections in the central nervous system. There is a demand for an evaluation of the sensitivity of PCR methods for early diagnosis of meningitis due to herpes simplex type 2 (HSV-2) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV). The objective of this study was to evaluate real-time PCR in the detection of HSV-2 and VZV DNA from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for etiological diagnoses in clinically well-characterized cases of primary and recurrent aseptic meningitis. Samples from 110 patients, 65 of whom were diagnosed with or were strongly suspected of having HSV-2 meningitis and 45 with acute aseptic meningitis of unknown causes, were analyzed. Results were compared with the outcome of nested PCR for HSV-2 infection. Clinical parameters were analyzed in relation to CSF viral load. With real-time PCR, HSV-2 DNA was found in CSF from 80% (52/65) of patients with clinical HSV-2 meningitis compared to 72% (47/65) found by nested PCR. The sensitivity of real-time HSV-2 PCR was found to be 87% (33/38) in primary and 70% (19/27) in recurrent meningitis. The HSV-2 viral load was significantly higher in primary than in recurrent meningitis and correlated with the degree of inflammation. VZV DNA was detected in 2 of 45 samples (4.4%). Real-time PCR for the diagnosis of HSV-2 meningitis was evaluated in a large, clinically well-characterized sample of material and found to identify more cases than nested PCR in the group of patients with recurrent meningitis. Quantification of DNA enables further research of disease prognosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Franzen-Röhl
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden.
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Abstract
Advances in the diagnosis of herpes simplex virus infections of the CNS have occurred rapidly over the past 10 years. The development and application of PCR technology to the detection of herpes simplex virus DNA from cerebrospinal fluid has resulted in tremendous improvements in the management of patients with suspected herpes simplex virus CNS infections, not the least of which is decreasing the necessity for invasive brain biopsy to establish the diagnosis. The pace of discovery has continued in recent years with the development of more rapid DNA amplification techniques that do not require postamplification analysis using amplified products (real-time PCR). However, despite the power of these new diagnostic modalities, test results must always be considered in the context of the patient, and physician judgment should never be usurped by technological advances. This article will summarize the advances in the diagnosis of herpes simplex virus CNS disease within the context of how these advances can enhance the care of individual patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- David W Kimberlin
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, The University of Alabama, 1600 Seventh Avenue South, CHB 303, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA.
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Abstract
Herpes viruses are widely involved in human infectious diseases, and some are life threatening, such as CNS infections. These manifestations vary according to the type of virus involved and the immune status of the patient. This article will review the clinical manifestations (encephalitis, myelitis, meningitis and postinfectious encephalomyelitis), the diagnostic strategies and the presently used drugs (acyclovir, valacyclovir, ganciclovir, valgancyclovir, foscarnet and cidofovir). The review will also discuss drugs that are currently in the pipeline and that could be used in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Denes
- Service de Maladies Infectieuses, CHU Dupuytren, 2 Ave Martin Luther King, 87000, Limoges, France.
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18
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Afonso N, Gunasena S, Galla K, Podzorski R, Chandrasekar P, Alangaden G. Appropriate use of polymerase chain reaction for detection of herpes simplex virus 2 in cerebrospinal fluid of patients at an inner-city hospital. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2006; 57:309-13. [PMID: 17175126 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2006.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2006] [Revised: 08/31/2006] [Accepted: 09/03/2006] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests that detect herpes simplex virus (HSV) DNA in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are increasingly used to diagnose central nervous system (CNS) infections caused by HSV. To determine proper utilization of this test at an inner-city hospital, we performed a case-control study of adult patients, with HSV detected in CSF by PCR. Retrospective review of characteristics of adult patients hospitalized between 1997 and 2000 with CSF positive for HSV was done and compared to control patients with suspected CNS infection and negative CSF PCR. CSF from 1174 patients was tested; 20 (1.7%) had HSV DNA detected, 19/20 were HSV-2 and 1 was HSV-1. The HSV-2 cases were females (74%), with a median age of 41 years, of African-American ethnicity (100%). Of the cases, 90% had acute aseptic meningitis versus 13% controls (P < .001). Recurrent meningitis occurred in 42% cases and 3% controls (P < .001). CSF parameters significantly associated with HSV-2 positivity was lymphocytic pleocytosis (median leukocyte, 475 cell/mm3, 90% lymphocytes) (P < .001). In conclusion, HSV-1 was rarely detected in CSF of patients with suspected CNS infection. HSV-2 is more frequent, predominantly in young African-American women with lymphocytic aseptic meningitis, and is often recurrent. PCR testing for HSV-2 in CSF at inner-city hospitals can be greatly reduced by the application of these parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelia Afonso
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
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Shalabi M, Whitley RJ. Recurrent Benign Lymphocytic Meningitis. Clin Infect Dis 2006; 43:1194-7. [PMID: 17029141 DOI: 10.1086/508281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2006] [Accepted: 06/27/2006] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent benign lymphocytic meningitis is a recurring, typically innocuous, painful form of aseptic meningitis. This syndrome is associated with transient neurological symptoms in one-half of afflicted patients. The causative agent is usually herpes simplex virus type 2, which can be confirmed by detection of viral DNA in the cerebrospinal fluid using polymerase chain reaction. Clinical disease resolves spontaneously; however, acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir have been administered to some patients for both episodic therapy and suppression of recurrences. This therapy is thought to be beneficial, although there is no controlled trial data to support efficacy and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwan Shalabi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
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20
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Schatzberg SJ, Haley NJ, Barr SC, Lahunta A, Sharp NJ. Polymerase Chain Reaction Screening for DNA Viruses in Paraffin-Embedded Brains from Dogs with Necrotizing Meningoencephalitis, Necrotizing Leukoencephalitis, and Granulomatous Meningoencephalitis. J Vet Intern Med 2005. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1939-1676.2005.tb02726.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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Affiliation(s)
- Todd B Ellerin
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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22
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Carmena Carmena J, Macià Soler M, Cremades Mira A, Alcaraz Soriano M. Meningitis de Mollaret por virus herpes simple 1. Rev Clin Esp 2004. [DOI: 10.1016/s0014-2565(04)71503-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Momméja-Marin H, Lafaurie M, Scieux C, Galicier L, Oksenhendler E, Molina JM. Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 as a Cause of Severe Meningitis in Immunocompromised Adults. Clin Infect Dis 2003; 37:1527-33. [PMID: 14614676 DOI: 10.1086/379520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2003] [Accepted: 07/20/2003] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
We reviewed the clinical and demographic characteristics and outcomes for 13 immunocompromised patients with herpes simplex virus (HSV)-induced meningitis. Eleven patients were receiving chemotherapy for leukemia or lymphoma, and 10 had acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Patients presented with acute febrile meningitis. The median white blood cell count at the onset of symptoms was 400 cells/mm3. Examination of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) specimens showed lymphocytic meningitis, but activated lymphocytes and low glucose levels were both noted in 7 patients. HSV DNA was detected in all CSF specimens, and HSV type 2 was identified in 7. Eight patients had suspected HSV-associated mucocutaneous lesions at the time of meningitis onset. Six patients had initial radiculalgia, with sphincter involvement in 2. Eleven patients received intravenous antiviral therapy, but treatment was delayed for 6 patients. Two of the 6 patients for whom treatment was delayed developed encephalitis and died, whereas 2 others experienced persistent neurological symptoms. HSV-2 can cause severe meningitis in immunocompromised patients. Early recognition and treatment might improve the outcome of such infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hervé Momméja-Marin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Assistance-Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, France
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O'Sullivan CE, Aksamit AJ, Harrington JR, Harmsen WS, Mitchell PS, Patel R. Clinical spectrum and laboratory characteristics associated with detection of herpes simplex virus DNA in cerebrospinal fluid. Mayo Clin Proc 2003; 78:1347-52. [PMID: 14601693 DOI: 10.4065/78.11.1347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the clinical, neurologic, and laboratory characteristics of patients with herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 (HSV-1) or HSV type 2 (HSV-2) DNA detected in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) with use of polymerase chain reaction. PATIENTS AND METHODS Clinical, laboratory, and demographic data were determined from 249 CSF specimens (collected from 247 patients >10 years of age) that tested positive for HSV-1 or HSV-2 DNA at the Mayo Clinic from January 1999 to August 2000. RESULTS The median age of the 200 patients whose age was available was 70 years vs 40 years for those with HSV-1 or HSV-2 DNA in CSF, respectively. Detailed data were available for 39 and 78 patients with positive polymerase chain reaction results for HSV-1 and HSV-2, respectively. Of those with HSV-1 DNA detected in CSF, 89% had encephalitis, whereas most patients with HSV-2 DNA detected in CSF had findings compatible with meningitis. Only 5 (7%) of 69 patients in whom HSV-2 was detected in CSF had genital lesions at presentation, and none of the assessable patients with HSV-2 who had recurrent meningitis had active genital lesions at presentation. CONCLUSION The vast majority (82%) of patients with HSV-2 detected in CSF had no history of genital herpes and no lesions at the time of presentation. Polymerase chain reaction assays designed to detect HSV in CSF should detect HSV-1 and HSV-2 and differentiate between HSV-1 and HSV-2.
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Chan TY, Parwani AV, Levi AW, Ali SZ. Mollaret's meningitis: cytopathologic analysis of fourteen cases. Diagn Cytopathol 2003; 28:227-31. [PMID: 12722116 DOI: 10.1002/dc.10261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Mollaret's meningitis (MM) is a rare disease of benign nature characterized by recurrent episodes of aseptic meningitis. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) examination remains the sole diagnostic modality. Eighteen CSF samples from 14 patients were studied along with the clinical data. Specimens were prepared by cytocentrifugation and Millipore filtration and were stained with Diff-Quik and Papanicolaou stains. Eight patients were men and six were women, with an age range of 17-74 yr (mean age 37 yr). Most common clinical presentation was recurrent episodes of headaches and photophobia followed by a sustained mild fever lasting 5-7 days. The CSF showed markedly increased cellularity with pleocytosis. The differential count showed predominant monocytosis ranging from 84% to 100% (mean 96). In our series, two patients had herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) DNA detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in the CSF. The monocytes were seen predominantly singly, but three cases showed a strong tendency to aggregate in small groups. Phenotypically, these cells had bean-shaped bilobed nuclei as well as multiple deep nuclear clefts depicting the so-called "footprint" appearance. In four cases, multiple blunt-tipped cytoplasmic pseudopods were noted. Degenerated monocytes with the appearance of the so-called "ghost cells" were noted in one-half of the cases. Background cells were mostly small mature lymphocytes; however, one-half of cases showed a significant amount of plasma cells and/or polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs). Lysed blood with hemosiderin-laden macrophages and numerous leptomeningeal cells were seen in two cases. CSF examination of MM presents a spectrum of cytomorphologic features. When interpreted in light of the appropriate clinical setting. the latter, although nonspecific, provides an accurate diagnosis. The differential diagnosis includes various degenerative, inflammatory/infectious, and lymphoproliferative disorders of the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Y Chan
- Department of Pathology, John K. Frost Cytopathology Laboratory, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Abstract
The aseptic meningitis syndrome (AMS) is as a diagnostic and management challenge. Since the initial description of AMS in 1925, the differential diagnosis of infectious and noninfectious agents associated with this syndrome has progressed. Although most cases of aseptic meningitis have a benign outcome, several etiologies require urgent therapy if the patient is to survive and be cured. This review will address the differential diagnosis of AMS and focus on recent empiric data that may aid the clinician treating these patients.
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Kara SH, Gürkan F, Boşnak M, Dikici B, Kervancio&gcaron;lu M, Sari B, Haspolat K. Mollaret meningitis with orolabial herpes and large lysed ghost cells. Clin Microbiol Infect 1999; 5:446-448. [PMID: 11853573 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-0691.1999.tb00172.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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