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Listeria monocytogenes Infection of the Brain
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Listeria monocytogenes meningitis in an immunocompetent 18-year-old patient as a possible diagnostic and

Miodrag Vrbić1, Marina Dinić, Maja Jovanović

  • 1Clinic for Infectious Diseases, Clinical Centre Nis, Nis, Serbia. mvrbic@open.telekom.rs

Vojnosanitetski Pregled
|December 10, 2013
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Listeria monocytogenes meningitis can affect young, healthy individuals. Early diagnosis and ampicillin treatment led to a full recovery in an 18-year-old patient, highlighting effective therapeutic strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Neurology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Listeria monocytogenes is a significant cause of bacterial meningitis, primarily affecting immunocompromised adults and the elderly.
  • Cases in immunocompetent individuals are rare, posing diagnostic challenges.

Observation:

  • An 18-year-old previously healthy male presented with meningitis symptoms.
  • Initial broad-spectrum antibiotics (ceftriaxone, vancomycin, meropenem) were ineffective.
  • Listeria monocytogenes was identified on day 6 of hospitalization.

Findings:

  • Despite delayed identification and initial treatment failures, ampicillin administration resulted in complete patient recovery.
  • The subacute progression of the meningitis allowed for timely diagnosis and effective intervention.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering Listeria monocytogenes in meningitis, even in young, immunocompetent patients.
  • Prompt and appropriate antibiotic therapy, such as ampicillin, is crucial for favorable outcomes.
  • The findings suggest that the course of Listeria meningitis may offer a window for effective treatment in younger populations.

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