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Propionibacterium acnes causing delayed subdural empyema - a case report and review of literature

S R A Ghalayini1, A M Likhith, A Golash

  • 1Department of Neurosurgery, Royal Preston Hospital, Preston, Lancashire, UK. simonohalavini@doctors.oro.uk

Journal of Clinical Neuroscience : Official Journal of the Neurosurgical Society of Australasia
|July 21, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Propionibacterium acnes can cause delayed subdural empyema after meningioma surgery, particularly with implants or immunosuppression. Prompt surgical drainage and high-dose intravenous penicillin are recommended treatments for this infection.

Area of Science:

  • Neurosurgery
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Meningioma excision is a neurosurgical procedure.
  • Subdural empyema is a serious intracranial infection.
  • Delayed infections can occur post-operatively.

Observation:

  • A patient developed delayed subdural empyema after meningioma surgery.
  • The causative agent identified was Propionibacterium acnes.
  • Risk factors included implants and immunosuppression.

Findings:

  • Propionibacterium acnes is an under-recognized cause of delayed empyema.
  • This pathogen requires specific consideration in post-operative neurosurgical patients.
  • Clinical features and management strategies for P. acnes empyema are discussed.

Implications:

  • Increased awareness of Propionibacterium acnes in post-operative empyema is crucial.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for favorable outcomes.
  • This case highlights the importance of considering atypical pathogens in complex infections.

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