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Updated: Aug 15, 2026

Listeria monocytogenes Infection of the Brain
05:02

Listeria monocytogenes Infection of the Brain

Published on: October 2, 2018

[Lymphocytis meningitis: Listeria monocytogenes is a potential risk in a immunocompetent child]

H Flodrops1, L Houdon, P Gérardin

  • 1Service de pédiatrie générale, groupe hospitalier Sud-Réunion, BP 350, 97448 Saint-Pierre, La Réunion. h.flodrops@ch-sudreunion.fr

Archives De Pediatrie : Organe Officiel De La Societe Francaise De Pediatrie
|September 28, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric meningoencephalitis caused by Listeria monocytogenes is rare. Early amoxicillin addition to standard antibiotics may improve outcomes in children with significant inflammation.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Meningoencephalitis, particularly brainstem forms, is a rare but severe childhood infection.
  • Listeria monocytogenes is an uncommon cause of central nervous system infections in pediatric populations.

Observation:

  • A 7-year-old girl presented with lymphocytic meningitis and elevated C-reactive protein (CRP).
  • Initial treatment with ceftriaxone and vancomycin showed temporary clinical improvement.
  • Delayed secondary brainstem inflammation and hydrocephalus prompted further investigation, leading to the detection of Listeria monocytogenes.

Findings:

  • Listeria monocytogenes was identified as the causative agent of meningoencephalitis.
  • The case highlights a potential for delayed neurological complications despite initial antibiotic therapy.

Implications:

  • This case suggests considering amoxicillin in conjunction with first-line antibiotics for pediatric lymphocytic meningoencephalitis.
  • This recommendation is particularly relevant in cases with significant inflammatory markers, even in immunocompetent children.
  • Early and comprehensive antibiotic strategies are crucial for managing severe pediatric CNS infections.
Abstract

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