A rare case of adult herpes simplex encephalitis complicated with rhabdomyolysis

BackgroundCompelling evidence indicates that status epilepticus is a prevalent cause of rhabdomyolysis. However, cases of rhabdomyolysis induced by a single seizure accompanied by viral encephalitis are rarely reported. Herein, we present a case of adult Herpes Simplex Encephalitis complicated with rhabdomyolysis.Case presentationA 32-year-old male was patient presented with fever accompanied by episodes of convulsions, myalgia, and oliguria, which exacerbated the delirium. Routine blood examination showed impaired kidney function and elevated myoglobin (Mb) and creatine phosphokinase (CK) levels. MRI scanning revealed a damaged frontotemporal lobe and limbic system. In addition, herpes simplex virus (HSV) pathogen was identified in the cerebrospinal fluid thus indicating HSV infection. Therefore, a diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis triggered by HSV infection accompanied by epilepsy was made. Notably, the patient recovered well after early intervention and treatment.ConclusionThe case presented here calls for careful analysis of rhabdomyolysis cases with unknown causes, minor seizures, and without status epilepticus. This case also indicates that HSV virus infection might contribute to the rhabdomyolysis.

Automated summary

Compelling evidence suggests that status epilepticus is a common cause of rhabdomyolysis, but cases of rhabdomyolysis induced by a single seizure accompanied by viral encephalitis are rarely reported. This case highlights the need for careful analysis of rhabdomyolysis cases with unknown causes, minor seizures, and without status epilepticus, and suggests that HSV virus infection may contribute to rhabdomyolysis.