HSV encephalitis in the context of substance abuse: A case report

Abstract

This case report discusses the presentation, diagnosis, and management of a 24-year-old male with no significant past medical history, who presented with substance abuse-related symptoms, including a drug overdose and seizure-like activity. He was later diagnosed with herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) encephalitis. Diagnostic workup revealed elevated creatine kinase levels indicative of rhabdomyolysis and positive urinary toxicology for THC. Neurology consultation and imaging findings confirmed HSV-1 encephalitis, and the patient was treated with intravenous acyclovir. This case emphasizes the importance of considering infectious causes in patients with a history of substance abuse presenting with neurological symptoms and highlights the complexity of managing dual pathologies in such patients.