In a suspected case of herpes simplex meningitis in a 6-day-old term infant, which CSF finding is expected?

In a suspected case of herpes simplex meningitis in an infant, the specific cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) findings play a critical role in diagnosis. The correct answer indicates that there are elevated red blood cells (RBCs), normal glucose, and elevated protein levels in the CSF.

In cases of viral meningitis, such as that caused by herpes simplex virus, it is common to see elevated protein levels in the CSF due to inflammation and the immune response. While glucose levels are often preserved in viral infections, they are typically normal, which aligns with the expectation in herpes simplex meningitis. The presence of elevated RBCs may suggest the potential for blood contamination or bleeds that can occasionally occur in viral infections affecting the central nervous system.

Understanding CSF profiles is essential for differentiating between types of meningitis. In bacterial meningitis, one would expect a more pronounced inflammatory response with a significant increase in white blood cells (WBCs), a decrease in glucose, and a marked increase in protein. In contrast, a viral profile usually maintains glucose levels within the normal range without significant WBC elevation. In this context, the presence of elevated RBCs with normal glucose and elevated protein distinctly indicates a viral etiology, making the