Inflammation of brain tissue caused by infection with the varicella-zoster virus (HERPESVIRUS 3, HUMAN). This condition is associated with immunocompromised states, including the ACQUIRED IMMUNODEFICIENCY SYNDROME. Pathologically, the virus tends to induce a vasculopathy and infect oligodendrocytes and ependymal cells, leading to CEREBRAL INFARCTION, multifocal regions of demyelination, and periventricular necrosis. Manifestations of varicella encephalitis usually occur 5-7 days after onset of HERPES ZOSTER and include HEADACHE; VOMITING; lethargy; focal neurologic deficits; FEVER; and COMA. (From Joynt, Clinical Neurology, 1996, Ch 26, pp29-32; Hum Pathol 1996 Sep;27(9):927-38)
Also Known As:
Encephalitis, Varicella; Zoster Encephalitis, Varicella; Encephalitis, Varicella Zoster; Encephalitis, Herpes Zoster; Encephalitis, VZ Virus; Herpes Zoster Meningoencephalitis; Varicella Encephalitides; Virus Encephalitis, VZ; Zoster Encephalitis, Herpes; Encephalitis, Human Herpesvirus 3; Herpes Zoster Encephalitis; Meningoencephalitis, Herpes Zoster; Varicella Encephalitis