HSV encephalitis is more common than measles virus encephalitis due to widespread MMR vaccination. A severe complication that occur years after a measles infection, as seen in one of our patients, is subacute sclerosing panencephalitis. This degenerative neurological condition leads to progressive destruction of nerve cells and is often fatal.

Early identification of these imaging characteristics via brain MRI is crucial for guiding treatment and improving outcomes. However, in most cases, imaging findings are non-specific and may mimic other etiologies, therefore, collaboration with clinical and paraclinical examinations is necessary.

This highlights the importance of vaccination and the need for prompt diagnostic protocols in at-risk populations.