[Postoperative herpetic meningoencephalitis after lumbar surgery: a case report]

Ann Fr Anesth Reanim. 2010 Oct;29(10):732-5. doi: 10.1016/j.annfar.2010.07.007. Epub 2010 Aug 24.
[Article in French]

Abstract

We report a case of a patient with an herpetic meningoencephalitis complicating lumbar surgery. A combination of factors like a postoperative sepsis, an abnormal MRI, and a positive viral PCR and culture made the diagnosis. A prolonged acyclovir treatment was employed with satisfactory results. This case remembers us the possibility of herpes reactivation in a stressful situation (including surgical stress).

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Encephalitis, Herpes Simplex / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Laminectomy / adverse effects*
  • Male