KC B, Bhattarai HB, Shah S, Bhattarai M, Uprety M, Jha A, Rayamajhi S, Pant S, Limbu CP, Shrestha BR. Herpes simplex encephalitis in a patient abusing morphine: a case report from Nepal.
Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2023;
85:1216-1219. [PMID:
37113868 PMCID:
PMC10129145 DOI:
10.1097/ms9.0000000000000462]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Herpes simplex encephalitis results from either primary infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV) or reactivation of latent HSV residing within the nuclei of sensory neurons. Opioid's administration is known to reactivate HSV infection.
Case presentation
We report a 46-year-old male who was in a rehabilitation center for 17 days for abusing morphine for 2 years.
Discussion
Chronic morphine use weakens immune system thereby, making body prone for development of infection. Opioids may reactivate HSV infection because of their immunosuppressive function.
Conclusion
Herpes simplex encephalitis is a potentially fatal condition but can be treated with early diagnosis and intervention.
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