Acute Medicine | Speech disturbance 01 knowledge B

Investigation and Management of Herpes Simplex Virus Encephalitis
Session Overview
Description
This session describes the pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of herpes simplex encephalitis.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Describe the pathogenesis and epidemiology of herpes encephalitis
• Form a differential diagnosis of patients in whom you suspect a viral encephalitis
• Order and interpret clinical investigations to support your diagnosis
• Instigate a safe management plan

In the UK, the most common viral encephalitis is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV).It can be very serious. Prompt treatment on suspicion of this illness can dramatically reduce mortality and morbidity.

This session will describe the aetiology of viral encephalitis and consider other differential diagnoses. The interpretation of relevant investigations will also be included, with guidance given on appropriate patient management.