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Primary ventriculitis caused by Streptococcus intermedius
G V Vajramani1, H Akrawi, G Jones
1Department of Neurosurgery, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, UK.
Abstract:
Streptococcus intermedius is increasingly being recognised as an aetiological agent in central nervous system infections. Primary ventriculitis caused by this organism has not been reported so far. We present a case of primary ventriculitis, which resulted in adhesions and multiloculated hydrocephalus, necessitating numerous surgical procedures to control it. No predisposing factor(s) could be identified. Although the organism could not be cultured from CSF, as he was already on antibiotic treatment, it could, however, be identified by 16S rDNA polymerase chain reaction on the CSF sample. It appears important to recognise this condition and to treat it aggressively to prevent complications such as adhesions and multiloculated hydrocephalus.
Insights
Primary ventriculitis caused by Streptococcus intermedius, a rare central nervous system infection, can lead to severe complications. Early recognition and aggressive treatment are crucial for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Streptococcus intermedius is an emerging cause of central nervous system infections.
- Primary ventriculitis, an infection of the brain's ventricles, has not been previously reported with this pathogen.
Observation:
- A case of primary ventriculitis caused by Streptococcus intermedius is presented.
- The infection led to adhesions and multiloculated hydrocephalus, requiring multiple surgical interventions.
- No predisposing factors were identified in the patient.
Findings:
- Cultures of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were negative due to prior antibiotic treatment.
- 16S rDNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR) successfully identified Streptococcus intermedius in the CSF sample.
- This highlights the utility of molecular methods when traditional cultures fail.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and aggressive management of Streptococcus intermedius ventriculitis are essential.
- Prompt treatment can prevent severe complications like adhesions and multiloculated hydrocephalus.
- This case expands the known spectrum of central nervous system infections caused by Streptococcus intermedius.
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