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Pneumocephalus associated with Bacteroides fragilis meningitis
1University of Ottawa, Timmins & District Hospital, Timmins, Ontario P4N 8R1, Canada. atbeat@ntl.sympatico.ca
Journal of Postgraduate Medicine
|December 30, 2004
Summary
Pneumocephalus, or intracranial gas, can signal anaerobic meningitis, especially Bacteroides fragilis, even without typical symptoms in the elderly. This rare association highlights the importance of CT scans in diagnosing central nervous system infections.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Pneumocephalus (intracranial gas) typically follows head trauma or surgery.
- Gas-forming organism infections of the central nervous system are rare causes of pneumocephalus.
- Bacteroides fragilis meningitis is uncommon, particularly in adults.
Observation:
- A case of pneumocephalus was identified in an elderly patient.
- The patient presented with Bacteroides fragilis meningitis.
- Classic meningeal irritation signs were absent in this elderly patient.
Findings:
- Computed tomography (CT) findings were crucial for suspecting pneumocephalus.
- This case represents the first reported instance of pneumocephalus associated with Bacteroides fragilis meningitis.
- The study highlights diagnostic challenges in elderly patients with atypical presentations.
Implications:
- Pneumocephalus in the absence of trauma or surgery warrants investigation for anaerobic CNS infections.
- CT imaging is vital for diagnosing rare conditions like pneumocephalus linked to meningitis.
- This case expands the understanding of Bacteroides fragilis meningitis presentations and diagnostic considerations.