First initial community-acquired meningitis due to extended-spectrum beta-lactamase producing Escherichia coli

Pierre Weyrich1, Nicolas Ettahar, Laurence Legout

  • 1Infectious diseases department, Dron hospital, Tourcoing, France.

Insights

This case report details a rare instance of community-acquired meningitis caused by extended-spectrum beta-lactamase producing E. coli, leading to aortic aneurysms. Despite prompt intervention, the patient succumbed to hemorrhagic shock, highlighting the severity of this infection.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Vascular Surgery
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Community-acquired meningitis can have severe systemic complications.
  • Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing Enterobacterales pose a significant therapeutic challenge.

Observation:

  • A patient presented with community-acquired meningitis caused by ESBL-producing Escherichia coli.
  • The infection complicated with rapidly expanding multiple aortic mycotic aneurysms.

Findings:

  • Prompt vascular surgery and broad-spectrum antibiotics were initiated due to impending aneurysm rupture.
  • Despite aggressive treatment, the patient died from hemorrhagic shock.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the potential for ESBL-producing E. coli meningitis to cause devastating vascular complications.
  • While rare, this presentation emphasizes the need for vigilance in managing Gram-negative bacterial meningitis.
  • Current treatment guidelines for Gram-negative bacterial meningitis remain relevant.

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