Imaging of Herpesvirus Infections of the CNS

Abstract

Objective: Herpesviridae are a family of DNA viruses remarkable for their ability to both promote acute infection and enter a latent phase with potential of reactivation. Herpes infections are ubiquitous throughout the human life span, regardless of the degree of immunocompetence.

Conclusion: We review the virology and clinical manifestations of each herpesvirus, with emphasis on recent advances in knowledge and characteristic neuroimaging findings important for diagnosis and appropriate clinical management.

Keywords: CNS; Epstein-Barr virus; cytomegalovirus; herpes simplex virus; human herpesvirus; varicella-zoster virus.