Abstract | BACKGROUND: Reactivation of varicella-zostervirus (VZV) can manifest as infection of the central nervous system. The detection of VZV DNA in cerebrospinal fluid by polymerase chain reaction has extended our knowledge about the frequency of various clinical manifestations in the immunocompetent host, also without the typical rash of shingles. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Over a period of three years, 1999 through 2001, we performed VZV polymerase chain reaction in cerebrospinal fluid in 364 patients with suspected infection of the central nervous system. RESULTS: INTERPRETATION: Our results are similar to results from other investigators that have found VZV DNA in the cerebrospinal fluid in immunocompetent patients with meningitis or encephalitis as the most common clinical manifestation, with or without shingles.
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Authors | Kristine Mørch, Svein Ivar Fylkesnes, Gunnar Haukenes |
Journal | Tidsskrift for den Norske laegeforening : tidsskrift for praktisk medicin, ny raekke
(Tidsskr Nor Laegeforen)
Vol. 123
Issue 20
Pg. 2871-3
(Oct 23 2003)
ISSN: 0807-7096 [Electronic] Norway |
Vernacular Title | Meningitt ved reaktivering av varicella zoster-virus. |
PMID | 14600712
(Publication Type: Case Reports, English Abstract, Journal Article)
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Chemical References |
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Topics |
- Adolescent
- Adult
- DNA, Viral
(cerebrospinal fluid)
- Female
- Herpesvirus 3, Human
(genetics, immunology)
- Humans
- Male
- Meningitis, Viral
(cerebrospinal fluid, immunology, virology)
- Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Retrospective Studies
- Virus Activation
(immunology)
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