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An unusual case of brain abscess by Gemella morbillorum

Maria Carla Liberto1, Giovanni Matera, Rossana Puccio

  • 1Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Microbiology, University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy. mliberto@unicz.it

Japanese Journal of Infectious Diseases
|April 25, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Gemella morbillorum can cause serious deep brain abscesses, requiring prompt CT-guided aspiration and a six-week antibiotic course. This case highlights Gemella spp. as emerging pathogens in severe infections, not just harmless commensals.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Gemella morbillorum is a gram-positive coccus, part of the normal oral and genitourinary flora.
  • While often considered commensal, Gemella species have been implicated in various infections, including endocarditis and bacteremia.

Observation:

  • A patient presented with symptoms indicative of a deep brain abscess, including high fever, lethargy, and severe headache.
  • Imaging revealed a suppurative lesion with a risk of intraventricular rupture.

Findings:

  • A CT-guided stereotactic aspiration successfully drained the deep brain abscess.
  • The patient received a 6-week treatment regimen comprising meropenem, metronidazole, and fluconazole, with a positive clinical response.

Implications:

  • This case underscores Gemella morbillorum as a potential cause of severe intracranial infections.
  • The findings suggest Gemella spp. are emerging pathogens that warrant consideration in serious infections beyond their typical commensal role.

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