Varicella zoster meningoencephalitis without exanthem: immunocompetent host

Authors

  • Shafaq Saleem Department of Neurology, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
  • Hafiz Muhammad Motsim Tariq Department of Anaesthesiology, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47391/JPMA.11320

Keywords:

Varicella meningoencephalitis, Aseptic meningitis, Acyclovir, Immunocompetent, Varicella vaccines

Abstract

In an immunocompetent person, varicella zoster virus (VZV) is an uncommon cause of aseptic meningoencephalitis. Reactivation of the latent varicella zoster virus from nerve infection results in shingles, a condition marked by rash, intense pain, and dermal involvement in immunocompromised hosts. We present an unusual case of a 22-year-old immunocompetent male diagnosed as VZV meningoencephalitis without exanthem. Workup revealed no risk factors for contracting VZV nor was there any childhood history associated with it. The patient responded to the treatment given and became symptom-free thereafter.

Keywords: Varicella meningoencephalitis, Aseptic meningitis, Acyclovir, Immunocompetent, Varicella vaccines.

Published

2024-11-17

How to Cite

shafaq saleem, & Tariq, H. M. M. (2024). Varicella zoster meningoencephalitis without exanthem: immunocompetent host. Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association, 74(12), 2179–2183. https://doi.org/10.47391/JPMA.11320

Issue

Section

CASE REPORT