3rd November 2021

A 62-year old gentleman presents to hospital with delirium, severe weakness and fever

A 62-year old gentleman presents to hospital with delirium, severe weakness and fever. His wife states that prior to admission, he suffered a generalised tonic-clonic seizure at home. This is the first time the patient has suffered a seizure – he has no known diagnosis of epilepsy. In the past couple of weeks, the patient has complained of a cough and cold. Aside from this, the patient has been well. There is no significant PMH. The patient undergoes a lumbar puncture and MRI following this. MRI shows areas of hyperintensity affecting the white matter and cortex. PCR testing was positive for herpes simplex virus. The doctor suspects a diagnosis of encephalitis. What antiviral treatment is the doctor likely to start?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.