Encephalitis, Varicella Zoster
Synonyms
Encephalitis, Herpes Zoster
Encephalitis, Human Herpesvirus 3
Encephalitis, VZ Virus
Encephalitis, Varicella
Herpes Zoster Encephalitis
Herpes Zoster Meningoencephalitis
Meningoencephalitis, Herpes Zoster
Varicella Encephalitides
Varicella Encephalitis
Varicella Zoster Encephalitis
Virus Encephalitis, VZ
Zoster Encephalitis, Herpes
Zoster Encephalitis, Varicella
Inflammation of brain tissue caused by infection with the varicella-zoster virus (HERPESVIRUS 3, HUMAN). This condition is associated with immunocompromised states, including the ACQUIRED IMMUNODEFICIENCY SYNDROME. Pathologically, the virus tends to induce a vasculopathy and infect oligodendrocytes and ependymal cells, leading to CEREBRAL INFARCTION, multifocal regions of demyelination, and periventricular necrosis. Manifestations of varicella encephalitis usually occur 5-7 days after onset of HERPES ZOSTER and include HEADACHE; VOMITING; lethargy; focal neurologic deficits; FEVER; and COMA. (From Joynt, Clinical Neurology, 1996, Ch 26, pp29-32; Hum Pathol 1996 Sep;27(9):927-38)