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Listeria monocytogenes Infection of the Brain
05:02

Listeria monocytogenes Infection of the Brain

Published on: October 2, 2018

Listeria monocytogenes meningitis: an uncommon opportunistic infection in HIV/AIDS

Asha B Patil1, Shobha Nadiger, M R Chandrasekhar

  • 1Department of Microbiology, Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences, Hubli. drashapatil@rediffmail.com

Indian Journal of Pathology & Microbiology
|September 22, 2007
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

This case report highlights Listeria monocytogenes meningitis in an HIV-positive man. Early diagnosis and ampicillin treatment led to a full recovery, emphasizing prompt intervention for this rare infection.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Neurology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Listeriosis, caused by Listeria monocytogenes, is an opportunistic infection.
  • Individuals with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) are immunocompromised, increasing susceptibility to infections.
  • Meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, can have various etiologies.

Observation:

  • A 45-year-old HIV-seropositive male presented with symptoms suggestive of meningitis but with atypical clinical features.
  • Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis revealed pleocytosis with a lymphocytic predominance.
  • Initial Gram stain of CSF was negative, delaying direct pathogen identification.

Findings:

  • Cerebrospinal fluid culture identified the causative agent as Listeria monocytogenes, a gram-positive bacillus.
  • Biochemical tests confirmed the identification of the bacterial isolate.
  • The patient received intravenous ampicillin for treatment.

Implications:

  • Listeriosis is uncommon in HIV/AIDS patients but can be severe.
  • Atypical presentations and initial negative Gram stains can complicate diagnosis.
  • Prompt diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics like ampicillin are crucial for favorable outcomes and preventing treatment failure in immunocompromised individuals.

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