[Meningo-encephalitis and hydrocephalus caused by Epstein-Barr virus]

Abstract

In a 35-year-old woman who presented with acute somnolence, confusion and slow irregular breathing, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) meningoencephalitis was diagnosed after serological testing and a polymerase chain reaction of the cerebrospinal fluid. She developed papilloedema and bilateral nervus abducens paresis. A CT scan showed generalized oedema of the brain and triventricular hydrocephalus. Treatment with a ventriculoperitoneal shunt and ganciclovir led to complete recovery. Meningoencephalitis is a not uncommon, yet rarely reported complication of infectious mononucleosis. It usually runs a mild course with spontaneous and full recovery. Hydrocephalus secondary to aqueduct stenosis is a complication of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) meningoencephalitis which has not been reported in adults before. The disease should be considered whenever the clinical condition deteriorates or neurological symptoms increase.