Stroke-like Symptoms as Presenting Signs of Varicella Zoster Meningitis in an Immunocompetent Adult

Abstract

Varicella zoster is one of the common causes of aseptic meningitis, typically seen in immunosuppressed individuals and rarely in the immunocompetent. The varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection is normally associated with a dermatomal rash in the abdomen with spread to the back. The small prevalence of VZV in immunocompetent individuals may be due to lack of recognition; thus, it is always important to keep it in mind when meningitis is in the differential. Here, we present a case of varicella zoster meningitis in an immunocompetent adult presenting with slurred speech, dizziness, and episodes of confusion.

Keywords: aseptic meningitis; stroke-like symptoms; varicella-zoster virus; viral meningitis; vzv meningitis.