Encephalitis, Varicella Zoster

**Definition:** 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)

**Tree numbers:** - C01.207.245.340.400 - C01.207.399.750.400 - C01.925.182.525.400 - C01.925.256.466.930.500 - C10.228.140.430.520.750.400 - C10.228.228.245.340.400 - C10.228.228.399.750.400 - C10.586.250.520.750.400

**Synonyms:** - Encephalitis, Human Herpesvirus 3 - Herpes Zoster Encephalitis - Varicella Encephalitis - Encephalitis, Herpes Zoster - Encephalitis, Varicella - Encephalitis, VZ Virus - Varicella Zoster Encephalitis