Language Remediation in a Case of Wernicke’s Aphasia Post Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Viral Encephalitis

Abstract

Objective: This report aims to disseminate a successful language remediation in a case of Wernicke’s aphasia following encephalitis caused by herpes simplex virus type 1. Methods: A female patient was referred two months post onset of Herpes Simplex Encephalitis (HSE) with severe Wernicke’s aphasia, confusion, environmental disorientation, and dependence in activities of daily living. Non-standardized portions of the Porch Index of Communicative Ability (PICA) was administered in speech-language assessment. A treatment program following the Context-Based Therapy was applied on an intensive schedule, with emphasis on the auditory system. PICA’s multidimensional scoring system was used to monitor patient’s progress. Results: Sixteen months post onset of Wernicke’s aphasia, patient was able to perform auditory comprehension/ memory tasks with gestural/ visual augmentation and demonstrate no deficits on a non-standardized PICA, other than occasional delays and self-corrections. Patient became independent and functional in activities of daily living. Conclusion: There is no proven method for rehabilitation of the Wernicke’s aphasia. The successful rehabilitation including language remediation in this case suggests that a treatment program following the Context-Based Therapy may be helpful in rehabilitation of Wernicke’s aphasia caused by HSE when administered on an intensive schedule.