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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 abscess of the brain]

D Ricard1, M Sallansonnet-Froment, G Defuentes

  • 1Service de neurologie, hôpital d'Instruction des armées du Val-de-Grâce, 74, boulevard de Port-Royal, B.P. 1-00446 Armées, 75230 cedex 5 Paris, France.

Revue Neurologique
|April 29, 2008
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

A rare brain stem abscess caused by Listeria monocytogenes occurred in an immunocompromised patient. Early antibiotic treatment with amoxicillin and gentamicin is crucial for successful outcomes in CNS listeriosis.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Listeriosis frequently affects the central nervous system, with meningoencephalitis and rhomboencephalitis being common.
  • Brain abscesses are a rare but serious manifestation of Listeria monocytogenes infection.

Observation:

  • A 63-year-old man on long-term steroids presented with hemiparesis, confusion, and fever.
  • Initial CT was normal, but CSF analysis showed pleocytosis. MRI revealed a brain stem abscess.
  • Diagnosis of Listeria monocytogenes meningoencephalitis was confirmed by blood cultures.

Findings:

  • The patient developed severe neurological deficits including coma and tetraparesis despite initial treatment.
  • Brain MRI identified a left peduncle abscess extending to the internal capsule.
  • The patient had residual hemiparesis and oculomotor nerve palsy post-treatment.

Implications:

  • Brain stem abscess is an uncommon presentation of CNS listeriosis.
  • Listeria monocytogenes should be suspected in immunocompromised patients with neurological deficits.
  • Prompt diagnosis and treatment with ampicillin and gentamicin are vital for managing CNS listeriosis.

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