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Inducing Meningococcal Meningitis Serogroup C in Mice via Intracisternal Delivery
10:03

Inducing Meningococcal Meningitis Serogroup C in Mice via Intracisternal Delivery

Published on: November 5, 2019

[A case of cryptococcal pneumonia accompanying meningitis]

Tomoko Tajiri1, Tatsuyoshi Ikeue, Atsushi Nakagawa

  • 1Department of Respiratory Diseases, Japan Red Cross Society, Wakayama Medical Center.

Nihon Kokyuki Gakkai Zasshi = the Journal of the Japanese Respiratory Society
|February 10, 2009
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Cryptococcal meningitis can occur in rheumatoid arthritis patients on corticosteroids. Early treatment with amphotericin B and flucytosine is crucial, but careful monitoring for side effects and drug resistance is essential for severe cases.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease.
  • Corticosteroid therapy is commonly used for RA management.
  • Immunocompromised patients are at increased risk for opportunistic infections like cryptococcosis.

Observation:

  • A case of cryptococcal meningitis in an 82-year-old woman with RA during corticosteroid therapy is presented.
  • Initial treatment with amphotericin B and flucytosine led to improvement.
  • The patient's condition deteriorated after switching to fluconazole due to side effects.

Findings:

  • Cryptococcal meningitis can be a serious complication in RA patients receiving corticosteroids.
  • Treatment failure occurred with monotherapy (fluconazole) after initial combination therapy.
  • Drug susceptibility testing and monitoring drug concentrations are vital in severe cases.

Implications:

  • Highlights the importance of considering fungal infections in immunocompromised patients.
  • Emphasizes the need for careful drug selection and monitoring in cryptococcal meningitis treatment.
  • Suggests that combination therapy and individualized treatment approaches may be necessary for optimal outcomes.

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