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Identification of Virulence Markers of Mycobacterium abscessus for Intracellular Replication in Phagocytes
Published on: September 27, 2018
Undiagnosed amebic brain abscess
Parnpen Viriyavejakul1, Mario Riganti
1Department of Tropical Pathology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand. tmpvr@mahidol.ac.th
Summary
This case report details a fatal amebic brain abscess caused by Entamoeba histolytica. Neurological symptoms in patients with amebic liver abscess warrant suspicion for brain involvement.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pathology
Background:
- Entamoeba histolytica commonly causes amebic liver abscess.
- Disseminated amebiasis, including brain involvement, is rare but severe.
Observation:
- A 31-year-old male with a known amebic liver abscess experienced clinical deterioration.
- Neurological symptoms including delirium and lethargy developed despite treatment.
- Autopsy revealed amebic abscesses in the liver, intestines, meninges, and brain.
Findings:
- A large amebic liver abscess (19 cm) and a significant amebic brain abscess (4 cm) were identified.
- Microscopic examination confirmed Entamoeba histolytica trophozoites in affected tissues.
- The patient's history of heroin addiction complicated the initial clinical presentation.
Implications:
- Brain involvement should be considered in amebic liver abscess patients presenting with neurological signs.
- Early recognition and diagnosis of disseminated amebiasis are crucial for patient outcomes.
- This case highlights the potential severity and multifaceted presentation of Entamoeba histolytica infections.
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