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Published on: November 5, 2019
Chryseobacterium meningosepticum--an uncommon pathogen causing adult bacterial meningitis
P Padmaja1, Susan Verghese, C V Bhirmanandham
1International Centre for Cardio Thoracic & Vascular Diseases, Mogappair, Chennai.
Abstract:
Chryseobacterium meningosepticum is an uncommon pathogen causing meningitis. We report a case of adult meningitis caused by chryseobacterium meningosepticum in an 88 year old woman. Immunosuppression due to old age, diabetes mellitus and history of hypertension of 20 years duration were the concomitant factors. chryseobacterium meningosepticum was isolated both from the cerebrospinal fluid and blood cultures. This organism was sensitive to quinolones, rifampicin and resistant to many antibiotics commonly used for empiric therapy for meningitis.
Insights
Chryseobacterium meningosepticum is a rare cause of meningitis, even in elderly patients with comorbidities. This case highlights the importance of considering unusual pathogens and antibiotic sensitivities in meningitis treatment.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Bacteriology
- Neurology
Background:
- Chryseobacterium meningosepticum is an infrequent cause of bacterial meningitis.
- Adult meningitis cases are less common than pediatric, especially with this pathogen.
Observation:
- An 88-year-old woman presented with meningitis.
- Concomitant factors included advanced age, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension.
- Chryseobacterium meningosepticum was identified in cerebrospinal fluid and blood cultures.
Findings:
- The isolated Chryseobacterium meningosepticum demonstrated susceptibility to quinolones and rifampicin.
- The organism exhibited resistance to several antibiotics typically used for empirical meningitis treatment.
Implications:
- This case underscores the need to consider uncommon pathogens like Chryseobacterium meningosepticum in adult meningitis.
- Antimicrobial susceptibility testing is crucial for effective treatment, as common empiric therapies may be ineffective.
- Understanding resistance patterns is vital for guiding clinical decisions in managing rare bacterial meningitis.
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