Factors Predictive of Varicella Zoster Virus Encephalitis/Meningitis: A Single-Center, Retrospective Study

BACKGROUND: The outcomes of varicella zoster virus (VZV) encephalitis/meningitis vary from complete recovery to severe complications. This study aimed to investigate the predictive factors of encephalitis and meningitis caused by VZV reactivation. MATERIAL/METHODS: VZV encephalitis/meningitis patients (n=39) who were treated between January 2019 and December 2021 were included. Patients were followed up for 3 months after discharge and divided into a favorable outcome group (FO, n=18; 46.2%) and an unfavorable outcome group (UO, n=21; 53.8%) according to whether it affects quality of life. The clinical data were retrospectively analyzed and compared between groups. RESULTS: As compared to the FO group, patients in the UO group were more likely to have higher body temperature (>38°C) at admission, longer interval from onset of CNS symptoms to initial of antiviral therapy, higher white blood cells (WBC) and adenosine deaminase (ADA) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and higher CRP in the blood (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Univariate logistic regression analysis showed CSF ADA (OR=1.279, 95% CI: 0.996~1.642) and interval from onset of CNS symptoms to initial of antiviral therapy (OR=1.299, 95% CI: 1.011~1.669) were independent risk factors for unfavorable outcomes (P<0.05). The sensitivity and specificity of combined CSF ADA and time interval from onset of CNS symptoms to initial of antiviral therapy were 78.8% and 95.2%, respectively, in predicting outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Higher CSF ADA and longer interval from onset of CNS symptoms to initial of antiviral therapy predict an unfavorable outcome, and the combination of both factors can achieve better performance.