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Streptococcus pyogenes meningitis: report of a case and review of the literature

R Berner1, S Herdeg, N Gordjani

  • 1University Children's Hospital, Freiburg, Germany. berner@kk1200.ukl.uni-freiburg.de

European Journal of Pediatrics
|August 3, 2000
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Streptococcus pyogenes meningitis is rare in children but can occur after ear infections. Prompt penicillin treatment leads to recovery without lasting effects.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Bacterial meningitis is a serious infection, with Streptococcus pyogenes rarely causing it outside the neonatal period.
  • This case highlights a potential link between otitis media and S. pyogenes meningitis.

Observation:

  • A previously healthy 7-year-old boy developed meningitis following a two-day history of otitis media.
  • A CT scan identified right-sided mastoiditis as a likely source of infection.
  • The patient received a 14-day course of penicillin G.

Findings:

  • The patient recovered fully without any sequelae.
  • Polymerase chain reaction analysis of bacterial DNA confirmed the presence of streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxin (SPE) B and SPE C genes, but not SPE A.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering Streptococcus pyogenes as a cause of bacterial meningitis in children, even when uncommon.
  • Early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic treatment, such as penicillin G, are crucial for favorable outcomes.
  • Further research into the role of specific streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxins in meningitis pathogenesis may be warranted.

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