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Community-acquired Streptococcus mitis meningitis: a case report

Selda Sayin Kutlu1, Suzan Sacar, Nural Cevahir

  • 1Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Pamukkale University, Kinikli, 20070 Denizli, Turkey. sayinkutlu@yahoo.com

International Journal of Infectious Diseases : IJID : Official Publication of the International Society for Infectious Diseases
|April 2, 2008
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Streptococcus mitis meningitis is rare but serious. This case highlights risk factors like older age, alcoholism, and poor oral hygiene, emphasizing prompt diagnosis and treatment for better outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Streptococcus mitis is common in human flora but can cause severe infections like endocarditis.
  • Meningitis due to S. mitis is infrequent, typically seen in immunocompromised individuals or those with specific medical histories.
  • Risk factors for S. mitis meningitis include prior spinal anesthesia, neurosurgery, malignancy, or neurological issues from endocarditis.

Observation:

  • A 58-year-old male with a history of alcoholism presented with fever, headache, and altered mental status.
  • Cerebrospinal fluid analysis confirmed meningitis caused by S. mitis.
  • The patient received a 14-day course of ampicillin.

Findings:

  • The isolated S. mitis strain was susceptible to penicillin.
  • The patient achieved a complete clinical recovery after treatment.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the significance of S. mitis meningitis in patients with specific risk factors.
  • Identifying risk factors such as advanced age (>50), alcoholism, poor oral hygiene, and maxillary sinusitis is crucial for early detection.
  • Prompt diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy are essential for managing S. mitis meningitis and improving patient prognosis.

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