Herpes simplex encephalitis after brain surgery: case report and review ofthe literature

Intracranial infection after neurosurgical intervention most often is cause d by bacteria. A rare case of fatal herpes simplex encephalitis after remov al of a meningioma is described and similar cases reported in the literatur e are reviewed. Recent diagnostic tools, including detection of herpes vira l DNA sequences by polymerase chain reaction, complement clinical suspicion and facilitate mandatory early diagnosis, because herpes encephalitis, wit hout rapid initiation of treatment, may lead to severe disability or death.