What is a typical presentation of herpes simplex encephalitis on CSF analysis?

Herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE) typically presents with a characteristic profile on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis. In this condition, there is often an increase in white blood cell (WBC) count, with a predominance of lymphocytes. This is consistent with viral infections, where lymphocytes are the primary immune responders.

The presence of elevated lymphocytes in the CSF reflects the body's immune response to the viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. This lymphocytic predominance is a key identifying feature when diagnosing HSE.

In addition to the increased lymphocytes, CSF analysis in herpes simplex encephalitis typically shows normal glucose levels and elevated protein. This combination of findings helps differentiate HSE from other types of encephalitis and is central to its diagnosis and management.