Basal ganglia and brainstem encephalitis, optic neuritis, and radiculomyelitis in Epstein-Barr virus infection

The neurologic complications of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection are rare. We describe a healthy adult with acute EBV meningoencephalomyeloradiculitis. The clinical manifestations, a serologic study, and a dynamic change of EBV DNA in the cerebrospinal fluid with spontaneous recovery confirmed the diagnosis of EBV infection of the nervous system. In addition, we provide other clinical clues for suspicion of EBV infection in patients with encephalitis. These include bilateral basal ganglia and brainstem lesions on magnetic resonance imaging, optic neuritis, or involvement of all levels of the nervous system.