What condition are periodic lateralized epileptiform discharges (PLEDs) most commonly linked to?

Periodic lateralized epileptiform discharges (PLEDs) are most commonly associated with herpes simplex encephalitis. This condition often leads to localized brain damage, particularly in the temporal lobes, where these discharges frequently originate. In herpes simplex encephalitis, the inflammation and neuronal injury can result in the characteristic electroencephalogram (EEG) findings of PLEDs, reflecting the disturbed electrical activity in the affected cerebral hemisphere.

PLEDs are typically indicative of an underlying structural or inflammatory process in the brain, which is evident in herpes simplex encephalitis. While other conditions such as metabolic encephalopathy can present with various types of EEG changes, they do not specifically produce PLEDs with the same frequency or localization as herpes simplex encephalitis.