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Induction of Leptomeningeal Cells Modification Via Intracisternal Injection
Published on: May 7, 2020
Meningoencephalitis associated with non-tuberculous mycobacteria
John Philip O'Dwyer1, John Gerard O'Connor, Helene McDermott
1Cork University Hospital, Neurology, Wilton, Cork, Ireland.
BMJ Case Reports
|November 24, 2011
Summary
This case study highlights a rare instance of meningoencephalitis caused by co-infection with Mycobacterium malmoense and Mycobacterium interjectum. Early recognition is crucial for effective treatment of these difficult-to-identify non-tuberculous mycobacteria.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are increasingly implicated in human infections.
- These organisms are often fastidious and challenging to identify.
- Central nervous system infections by NTM are rare but serious.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a unique case of meningoencephalitis.
- To highlight the co-isolation of Mycobacterium malmoense and Mycobacterium interjectum from cerebrospinal fluid.
- To emphasize the importance of recognizing rare NTM CNS isolates.
Main Methods:
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis.
- Microbiological culture and identification of mycobacteria.
- Clinical case reporting.
Main Results:
- Co-isolation of Mycobacterium malmoense and Mycobacterium interjectum from CSF.
- Diagnosis of meningoencephalitis in the affected patient.
- Demonstration of M. malmoense as an unusual CNS pathogen.
Conclusions:
- Mycobacterium malmoense and Mycobacterium interjectum can cause severe central nervous system disease.
- Accurate identification of NTM is critical for appropriate treatment selection.
- This case underscores the diagnostic challenge and rarity of M. malmoense CNS infections.
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