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Q fever meningoencephalitis in five patients
M Drancourt1, D Raoult, B Xeridat
1Centre National de Référence des Rickettsioses C.H.U. La Timone, Marseille, France.
European Journal of Epidemiology
|March 1, 1991
Summary
Q fever meningoencephalitis presents with diverse neurological symptoms. Early consideration and serological confirmation are crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment in endemic regions.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Q fever, caused by Coxiella burnetii, is a zoonotic illness.
- Meningoencephalitis is a serious inflammation of the brain and meninges.
Observation:
- Five recent patients presented with Q fever meningoencephalitis.
- Neurological manifestations included coma, seizures, confusion, palsy, and meningitis.
- Cerebrospinal fluid cultures for Coxiella burnetii were negative in two patients.
Findings:
- Epidemiological, clinical, and serological data supported Q fever meningoencephalitis diagnosis.
- Literature review identified four additional cases since 1984.
Implications:
- Q fever should be considered in meningitis cases in endemic areas.
- Serological confirmation is vital for diagnosis.
- Antibiotics like new quinolones may aid treatment due to cerebrospinal fluid penetration.