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Listeria monocytogenes Infection of the Brain
05:02

Listeria monocytogenes Infection of the Brain

Published on: October 2, 2018

Central nervous system infection with Listeria monocytogenes

Heather E Clauss1, Bennett Lorber

  • 1Section of Infectious Diseases, Temple University Hospital, Broad and Ontario Streets, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA.

Current Infectious Disease Reports
|September 4, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Listeria monocytogenes can infect the central nervous system, causing serious conditions like meningitis and brain abscesses, especially in immunocompromised individuals. Prevention involves avoiding certain foods like unpasteurized dairy and deli meats.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Listeria monocytogenes is a foodborne pathogen with a propensity to infect the central nervous system (CNS).
  • CNS infections caused by L. monocytogenes include meningitis, brain abscesses, rhombencephalitis, and spinal cord abscesses, often involving both meninges and brain.
  • This pathogen is a significant cause of CNS infections in individuals with compromised cell-mediated immunity, accounting for 20% of bacterial meningitis in neonates and those over 50.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the clinical syndromes, risk factors, and treatment of Listeria monocytogenes infections affecting the central nervous system.
  • To highlight the importance of L. monocytogenes as a cause of CNS infections in specific patient populations.
  • To provide guidance on preventive dietary measures for at-risk individuals.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of clinical cases and epidemiological data concerning Listeria monocytogenes CNS infections.
  • Analysis of established treatment protocols and recommendations.
  • Summary of current public health advice regarding foodborne risks.

Main Results:

  • Listeria monocytogenes frequently causes meningitis and brain abscesses, particularly in neonates and individuals over 50, and those with weakened immune systems.
  • Ampicillin is the primary treatment, with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole as an alternative for penicillin-allergic patients.
  • Dietary recommendations focus on avoiding unpasteurized milk, soft cheeses, and ready-to-eat deli meats, especially poultry.

Conclusions:

  • Listeria monocytogenes poses a significant threat to the CNS, especially in vulnerable populations.
  • Prompt diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy (ampicillin or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole) are crucial for managing these infections.
  • Public awareness regarding food safety practices is essential for preventing Listeria monocytogenes infections.

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