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Updated: May 16, 2026
Generation of Multivirus-specific T Cells to Prevent/treat Viral Infections after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant
Published on: May 27, 2011
Vancomycin-resistant enterococcal meningitis in an autologous stem cell transplant recipient cured with linezolid
1Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. katherine.frasca@uphs.upenn.edu
Abstract:
Enterococci are an unusual cause of meningitis, with most cases reported in the literature preceded by neurosurgical procedures. Spread to the meninges from an enterococcal bloodstream infection is even more rare, with few cases reported in the literature. We report the first documented case, to our knowledge, of successful treatment of vancomycin-resistant enterococcal (VRE) meningitis with linezolid therapy in an immunosuppressed hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipient. Our case highlights the success of monotherapy with linezolid for VRE meningitis. A literature review is provided, which reveals that there is little evidenced-based data on the optimal therapy for VRE meningitis.
Insights
Enterococci rarely cause meningitis, especially from bloodstream infections. This study details the first successful vancomycin-resistant enterococcal (VRE) meningitis treatment using linezolid monotherapy in an immunocompromised patient.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Hematology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Enterococcal meningitis is uncommon, typically associated with neurosurgical interventions.
- Spread from enterococcal bloodstream infections to the meninges is exceptionally rare.
- Limited evidence-based data exists for optimal treatment of vancomycin-resistant enterococcal (VRE) meningitis.
Observation:
- A rare case of VRE meningitis occurred in an immunosuppressed patient post-hematopoietic stem cell transplant.
- The patient had no preceding neurosurgical procedures, indicating spread from a bloodstream infection.
Findings:
- Successful treatment of VRE meningitis was achieved with linezolid monotherapy.
- This represents the first documented case of successful linezolid treatment for VRE meningitis in this patient population.
Implications:
- Linezolid monotherapy can be an effective treatment option for VRE meningitis.
- Highlights a potential therapeutic strategy for a rare and difficult-to-treat infection.
- Suggests the need for further research into evidence-based treatment protocols for VRE meningitis.
