Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2026

Non-invasive Imaging of Disseminated Candidiasis in Zebrafish Larvae
Published on: July 30, 2012
[Chronic eosinophilic meningoencephalitis due to Candida guillermondii]
L Paz-Sendín1, R González-Torres, L Gámez-Morales
1Servicio de Neurología, Hospital Carlos J. Finlay, La Habana, Cuba.
Introduction:
Eosinophilic meningoencephalitis is characterized by a meningeal syndrome and an eosinophilic reaction of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). When these symptoms persist for more than four weeks, it is said to be chronic. Both eosinophilic meningoencephalitis and chronic meningoencephalitis are of multiple aetiologies, including fungi.
Clinical Case:
We report a case in which chronic meningoencephalitis occurred, with persistence of leukocytes, mainly eosinophils, in the CSF. The patient complained of intense, generalized headache and a temperature of 37 degrees C. On physical examination, the only unusual finding was slight neck stiffness. During the clinical course there were focal motor signs and evidence of intracranial hypertension. On CSF culture Candida guillermondii was grown. Treatment with amphotericin B was given, and the neurological disorder remitted completely.
Conclusion:
Candida guillermondii may be the etiological agent in chronic eosinophilic meningoencephalitis.
Insights
Chronic eosinophilic meningoencephalitis, a condition with persistent eosinophils in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), can be caused by the fungus Candida guillermondii. This fungal infection is treatable, leading to complete neurological recovery.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Mycology
Background:
- Eosinophilic meningoencephalitis presents with meningeal syndrome and eosinophilic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
- Chronic meningoencephalitis, persisting over four weeks, has diverse etiologies, including fungal infections.
- Fungal infections are a recognized cause of chronic meningoencephalitis.
Observation:
- A patient presented with chronic meningoencephalitis, marked by persistent eosinophils in CSF.
- Symptoms included severe headache, mild neck stiffness, focal motor deficits, and signs of intracranial hypertension.
- CSF analysis revealed Candida guillermondii.
Findings:
- Candida guillermondii was identified as the causative agent in a case of chronic eosinophilic meningoencephalitis.
- Antifungal treatment with amphotericin B led to complete resolution of the neurological disorder.
- This case highlights a specific fungal etiology for chronic eosinophilic meningoencephalitis.
Implications:
- Candida guillermondii should be considered in the differential diagnosis of chronic eosinophilic meningoencephalitis.
- Prompt diagnosis and appropriate antifungal therapy are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- This finding expands the known spectrum of fungal pathogens implicated in central nervous system infections.
Related Concept Videos
Cryptococcal Meningitis
American Trypanosomiasis
Giardiasis
Amebiasis
Candidiasis
Encephalitis l: Introduction

