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