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Published on: January 14, 2014
Rapidly growing tumor-like brain lesion
G Ackermann1, H Schoen, R Schaumann
1Institute for Medical Microbiology and Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases, University of Leipzig, Germany.
Abstract:
Listeria monocytogenes accounts for 8-11% of the cases of bacterial meningitis which is associated with high mortality in patients with serious underlying diseases or those receiving immunosuppressive treatment. Brain abscess due to L. monocytogenes is a very rare occurrence. The case reported here concerns a 54-year-old female patient with a rapidly growing tumor-like brain lesion. L. monocytogenes type 4b could be cultured from blood and brain biopsy. Despite antimicrobial therapy with ampicillin and gentamicin, the patient died 11 days after admission to the hospital. The growing numbers of elderly and immunocompromised patients will increasingly confront physicians with patients with listeriosis. Delayed therapy in patients treated with corticosteroids may result in a fatal outcome.
Insights
Listeria monocytogenes can cause severe meningitis and rare brain abscesses, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial, as delays, especially with corticosteroid use, can be fatal.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Listeria monocytogenes is a significant cause of bacterial meningitis, especially in vulnerable populations.
- Brain abscess is an exceptionally rare manifestation of Listeria monocytogenes infection.
Observation:
- A 54-year-old female presented with a rapidly progressing, tumor-like brain lesion.
- Listeria monocytogenes type 4b was isolated from both blood and brain biopsy samples.
Findings:
- Despite treatment with ampicillin and gentamicin, the patient succumbed to the infection within 11 days.
- The case highlights the aggressive nature of Listeria monocytogenes brain abscess.
Implications:
- Increasing numbers of elderly and immunocompromised patients necessitate heightened awareness of listeriosis.
- Delayed or inadequate treatment, particularly in patients on corticosteroids, carries a high risk of mortality.
- This rare case underscores the importance of considering Listeria monocytogenes in the differential diagnosis of brain abscesses.
