Relapse of herpes simplex virus encephalitis.

Herpes simple encephalitis (HSE) rarely occurs in children, is not easily diagnosed and has a poor prognosis. Case Report. - We report a pediatric case with a relapse on the 29th day despite conventional acyclovir therapy. As the relapse mechanism is not clearly understood. antiviral and immunosuppressive therapy was administered. Conclusion. - This case underlines the importance of clinical examination and the necessity of accurate testing prior slopping antiviral treatment. A better understanding of the relapse mechanism is required in order to propose more efficient treatment. (C) 1999 Editions scientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS.