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Primary amebic meningoencephalitis
Ruchi Rai1, D K Singh, A K Srivastava
1Department of Pediatrics, MLN Medical College, University of Allahabad, Allahabad, UP, India. drruchi.rai@indiatimes.com
Abstract:
We report an 8 month-old infant with primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAME) due to Naegleria fowleri. The child was treated with amphotericin B, chloramphenicol and rifampicin for 3 weeks. PAME is an almost universally fatal condition with very few survivors till date. Our patient was one of the rare survivors who recovered after treatment and was discharged without any residual neurological deficit.
Insights
A rare case of primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAME) in an infant survived. The child recovered fully after a 3-week treatment of amphotericin B, chloramphenicol, and rifampicin.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
- Amoebiasis
Background:
- Primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAME) is a devastating infection of the central nervous system caused by Naegleria fowleri.
- PAME typically presents with rapid neurological deterioration and has an extremely high mortality rate, with very few documented survivors.
Observation:
- An 8-month-old infant presented with symptoms consistent with PAME.
- The infant was treated with a combination of amphotericin B, chloramphenicol, and rifampicin over a 3-week period.
Findings:
- The infant experienced a rare survival from PAME.
- Complete neurological recovery was achieved, with no residual deficits upon discharge.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for successful treatment of PAME, even in infants.
- The combination therapy used may offer a viable therapeutic strategy for this rare and fatal infection.
- Further research into PAME treatment protocols is warranted to improve patient outcomes.
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