Rare Case of Human Herpes Virus-6 Meningitis in Immunocompetent Adult Patient Presented as Decrease Level of Consciousness
Omar A. Albaiti1*, Ghassan Wali2 and Bayan Ali3
1 Neurology, Sameer Abbas Hospital., Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
2 Internal Medicine, Sameer Abbas Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
3 Neuroscience Department, King Abdullah Medical Complex, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
*Corresponding Author: Omar A. Albaiti, Neurology, Sameer Abbas Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.58624/SVOANE.2024.05.0155
Received: October 30, 2024 Published: November 25, 2024
Abstract
Background: Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) is typically known for causing roseola in children, but its role in encephalitis among immunocompetent adults is less documented.
Case Presentation: We report a case of a 35-year-old Indonesian male with no significant medical history, who was admitted in August 2024 with high fever and altered consciousness. Symptoms began 10 days prior, escalating from fever to severe headache and neck stiffness. Initial treatment with paracetamol and levofloxacin was ineffective. Neurological examination revealed reduced consciousness (GCS 9/15) and behavioral abnormalities. Investigations included a CT scan, blood tests, and CSF analysis.
Investigations: Initial CSF analysis showed elevated protein and lymphocyte predominance. The CSF FilmArray Meningitis Panel confirmed HHV-6 infection. EEG indicated cerebral dysfunction, and MRI revealed non-specific white matter changes.
Treatment and Follow-Up: The patient received empirical treatment with vancomycin, ceftriaxone, and acyclovir, later switched to ganciclovir, leading to significant recovery. Follow-up indicated resolution of fever and neurological symptoms.
Discussion: This case underscores HHV-6 as a potential cause of severe encephalitis in immunocompetent adults. The effectiveness of the FilmArray Meningitis Panel in diagnosing HHV-6 emphasizes the need for awareness of this virus in encephalitis cases. Further research is needed to refine treatment and diagnostic protocols for HHV-6 infections.
Conclusion: HHV-6 should be considered in the differential diagnosis of encephalitis in adults, especially when common pathogens are excluded. Improved understanding and treatment strategies are essential for better patient outcomes.
Keywords: Viral Infection, Ganciclovir, Filmarray Meningitis Panel, Cerebrospinal Fluid, Immunocompetent Adults, Encephalitis, Hhv-6, Human Herpesvirus 6
Citation: Albaiti OA, Wali G, Ali B. Rare Case of Human Herpes Virus-6 Meningitis in Immunocompetent Adult Patient Presented as Decrease Level of Consciousness. SVOA Neurology 2024, 5:6, 238-243. doi. 10.58624/ SVOANE.2024.05.0155
