Diffusion-weighted MR imaging findings in a patient with herpes simplex encephalitis.
BACKGROUND
Herpes simplex meningoencephalitis is one of the most common viral central nervous system infection in adults. Early diagnosis is essential for treatment.


METHODS
We present a case of a 68-year-old female patient with herpes simplex infection. On admission, she was in severe clinical condition. Diffusion-weighted (DW) magnetic resonance imaging detected brain involvement better than conventional sequences. After acyclovir therapy, the patient fully recovered.


CONCLUSIONS
DW magnetic resonance imaging is expected to provide a more sensitive imaging in herpes simplex patients than conventional sequences.
Heiner
L
L
Department of Radiology, University Hospital KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium. heiner_lajos@freemail.hu
Demaerel
Ph
P
D000368:Aged; D001921:Brain / Q000473:pathology*; D038524:Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D020803:Encephalitis, Herpes Simplex / Q000175:diagnosis*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans