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Updated: Apr 27, 2026
05:02
Listeria monocytogenes Infection of the Brain
Published on: October 2, 2018
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Listeria monocytogenes brainstem infection (rhombencephalitis) mimicking ischemic stroke
Abstract:
The frequency of Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) infection of the central nervous system is increasing. We report a patient recently treated with chemotherapeutic drugs for pulmonary adenocarcinoma who suddenly developed hemiparesis, was initially diagnosed with stroke, and was then found to be affected by Lm rhombencephalitis accompanied by a brain abscess. Lm meningoencephalitis mimicking ischemic stroke is rare but must be considered, especially in specific patients.
Insights
Central nervous system infections from Listeria monocytogenes are rising. A patient treated for lung cancer developed rhombencephalitis and a brain abscess, initially misdiagnosed as stroke.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Oncology
Background:
- Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) central nervous system infections are increasingly reported.
- Chemotherapy can increase susceptibility to opportunistic infections.
- Pulmonary adenocarcinoma patients undergoing treatment are a specific demographic.
Observation:
- A patient with pulmonary adenocarcinoma on chemotherapy presented with sudden hemiparesis.
- Initial diagnosis was ischemic stroke.
- Further investigation revealed rhombencephalitis and a brain abscess caused by Lm.
Findings:
- Listeria monocytogenes rhombencephalitis can mimic acute ischemic stroke.
- Brain abscess formation is a complication of Lm meningoencephalitis.
- The clinical presentation can be misleading, delaying diagnosis.
Implications:
- Clinicians must consider Lm meningoencephalitis in immunocompromised patients presenting with stroke-like symptoms.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for better patient outcomes.
- Increased awareness of Lm CNS infections in specific patient populations is warranted.
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