07/06/2026
Previously tested in Phase A final OSPE, MRCP Part 2, 'FCPS Part 1 Medicine'
Herpes encephalitis is a serious viral infection of the brain, most commonly caused by Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1).
Symptoms usually develop over hours to days and may include:
1. Fever
2. Headache
3. Altered mental status (confusion, personality changes, decreased consciousness)
4. Seizures
5. Memory impairment
6. Speech disturbances (aphasia)
7. Focal neurological deficits
✪ The most characteristic MRI finding is:
Hyperintense lesions on T2-weighted and FLAIR sequences involving the medial temporal lobes, often asymmetrically.
✪ Treatment includes
Intravenous Acyclovir for 14–21 days
Supportive care (management of seizures, cerebral edema, and complications)
