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Listeria monocytogenes Infection of the Brain
05:02

Listeria monocytogenes Infection of the Brain

Published on: October 2, 2018

Simultaneous supratentorial and brainstem abscesses due to Listeria monocytogenes

J P Soares-Fernandes1, P Beleza, J J Cerqueira

  • 1Department of Neuroradiology, Hospital de S.-Marcos, Braga, Portugal. jsf@bragatel.pt

Journal of Neuroradiology = Journal De Neuroradiologie
|September 1, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Multiple brain abscesses caused by Listeria monocytogenes are rare, especially when occurring simultaneously in the supratentorial and brainstem regions. This case highlights a good clinical outcome with prompt antibiotic treatment and immunosuppression withdrawal.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Listeria monocytogenes is a pathogen that can cause serious central nervous system infections, including brain abscesses.
  • Multiple supratentorial abscesses are uncommon, and their simultaneous occurrence with brainstem abscesses is exceptionally rare.
  • Corticosteroid therapy for conditions like ulcerative colitis can increase the risk of opportunistic infections, including listeriosis.

Observation:

  • A patient undergoing corticotherapy for ulcerative colitis presented with multiple supratentorial and brainstem abscesses.
  • Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging was used to visualize the abscesses before and after treatment.
  • The patient's immunocompromised state was a significant factor in the development of these abscesses.

Findings:

  • The case demonstrated the simultaneous occurrence of multiple supratentorial and brainstem abscesses caused by Listeria monocytogenes.
  • MR imaging revealed the extent and location of the abscesses.
  • Successful conservative treatment was achieved through appropriate antibiotic therapy and discontinuation of immunosuppressant medication.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering Listeria monocytogenes in immunocompromised patients with multiple brain abscesses, even in unusual locations.
  • Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management, including targeted antibiotics and reversal of immunosuppression, can lead to favorable clinical outcomes despite the high mortality associated with listerial abscesses.
  • The findings highlight the diagnostic utility of MR imaging in evaluating brain abscesses and their response to treatment.

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