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Central nervous system pseudallescheriasis after near-drowning
Kessarin Panichpisal1, Kenneth Nugent, Juan C Sarria
1Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, USA.
Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery
|December 6, 2005
Summary
Central nervous system (CNS) pseudallescheriasis following near-drowning is a rare but highly fatal infection. Prompt medical and surgical interventions are crucial for improving survival rates in these critical cases.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Central nervous system (CNS) pseudallescheriasis is a rare fungal infection.
- Cases following near-drowning incidents have not been systematically analyzed.
- This condition poses a significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically analyze the clinical characteristics of CNS pseudallescheriasis after near-drowning.
- To identify factors associated with outcomes in affected patients.
- To inform clinical management strategies.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive review of English-language literature was conducted.
- Cases of CNS pseudallescheriasis following near-drowning were identified and analyzed.
- Clinical data, treatment regimens, and outcomes were extracted.
Main Results:
- Sixteen cases were identified, with an average onset of 37 days post-near-drowning.
- Common symptoms included fever, altered mental status, headache, seizures, and hemiparesis.
- All patients developed brain abscesses, with a 75% mortality rate; survivors received prompt treatment.
Conclusions:
- CNS pseudallescheriasis post-near-drowning is associated with extremely high mortality.
- Early diagnosis and aggressive multimodal treatment (surgical and antifungal) are critical.
- Prompt intervention may offer the only chance for patient survival.