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Eosinophilic meningitis: cause of a chronic pain syndrome
P D Clouston1, A J Corbett, D S Pryor
1Department of Neurology, Repatriation General Hospital, Concord, Australia.
Abstract:
Three tourists developed eosinophilic meningitis after visiting the Fijian Islands. Two had a severe and long lasting illness with chronic intractable pain. In one patient electrophysiological studies and MRI scan of the brain were abnormal and provided evidence of both radicular and cerebral parenchymal involvement by the most likely causative agent, Angiostrongylus cantonensis.
Insights
Tourists visiting Fiji can develop eosinophilic meningitis from Angiostrongylus cantonensis. This parasitic infection can cause severe, long-lasting neurological illness, including chronic pain and brain involvement.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Eosinophilic meningitis is a serious neurological condition.
- Angiostrongylus cantonensis is a parasitic nematode.
- Travelers
- Fijian Islands
Observation:
- Three tourists contracted eosinophilic meningitis after traveling to the Fijian Islands.
- Two patients experienced severe, chronic, and intractable pain.
- One patient showed abnormal electrophysiological studies and MRI scans.
Findings:
- The clinical presentation suggests infection with Angiostrongylus cantonensis.
- Abnormal imaging and electrophysiological findings indicated both radicular and cerebral parenchymal involvement.
- The parasite Angiostrongylus cantonensis is the most likely causative agent.
Implications:
- This case highlights the risk of Angiostrongylus cantonensis infection in travelers to endemic areas.
- Early diagnosis and management are crucial for patients with eosinophilic meningitis.
- Neurological sequelae, including chronic pain, can be significant and long-lasting.