A 6-year-old child presents with fever, altered consciousness, and two episodes of generalized tonic-clonic seizures over 24 hours. MRI brain reveals T2 hyperintensity in the right temporal lobe. CSF analysis shows lymphocytic pleocytosis and elevated red blood cell count. Which antiviral is the treatment of choice?

• A Oseltamivir
• B Ganciclovir
• C Ribavirin
• D Acyclovir ✓

Explanation

HSV encephalitis preferentially involves the temporal lobe and causes hemorrhagic CSF with elevated red blood cells. Intravenous Acyclovir is the definitive treatment of choice and significantly reduces mortality and morbidity. Ganciclovir is indicated for CMV encephalitis, Ribavirin for RSV, and Oseltamivir for influenza. Empiric Acyclovir must be started immediately in suspected cases.

Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.