Herpes simplex virus type 2 myelitis mimicking ICU-acquired weakness as a complication of meningococcal meningitis: A case report. (February 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tsutsumi, Ken; Saito, Hiroki; Kitano, Yuka; Wakatake, Haruaki; Masui, Yoshihiro; Fujitani, Shigeki
• Is Part Of: International journal of infectious diseases. Volume 103(2021)
• Page Start: 173
• Page End: 175
• Publication Date: 2021-02
• Subjects: HSV-2 myelitis -- ICU-acquired weakness -- Sepsis -- Immunosuppression; Communicable diseases -- Periodicals; Communicable Diseases -- Periodicals; Communicable diseases; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 616.9
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2020.11.134
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1201-9712

Abstract

Highlights: Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is reactivated during the immunosuppression phase of sepsis. Reactivated HSV-2 myelitis can occur among critically ill patients, mimicking ICU-acquired weakness. Before making a diagnosis of ICU-acquired weakness, reactivated HSV myelitis should be excluded. Abstract: Herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) is a well-known cause of neurological complications. This case study describes the first reported case of reactivated HSV-2 myelitis, which was induced by immunosuppression due to sepsis. During the treatment of meningococcal meningitis, the patient developed quadriparesis and was later diagnosed as HSV-2 myelitis, mimicking ICU-acquired weakness. The case emphasizes the importance of excluding viral myelitis before making the diagnosis of ICU-acquired weakness.