Herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE) is the most
common single cause of viral encephalitis in
infants and children. Treated or untreated, it
can be associated with considerable morbidity
and mortality, and its presentation is usually
insidious and non-specific. Prompt and careful
investigation is important in order to establish
the diagnosis so that treatment can be
optimised. We address some common
questions arising when diagnosing
and treating presumed HSE throughout
childhood.