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Updated: Feb 23, 2026
Listeria monocytogenes Infection of the Brain
Published on: October 2, 2018
Multiple cortical brain abscesses due to Listeria monocytogenes in an immunocompetent patient
Sadia Khan1, Anil Kumar2, Satyajit Kale3
11 Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Microbiology, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Kochi, India.
Abstract:
Listeria monocytogenes is an intracellular organism which is well recognised for its ability to cause meningeal infections in neonates, immunosuppressed, debilitated and elderly individuals. 1 Other less common central nervous system (CNS) infections caused by Listeria spp. include rhomboencephalitis, cerebritis and abscesses in the brain, brain stem and spinal cord. The neuroradiological appearance of Listeria brain abscesses is similar to other types and may also mimic primary or metastatic brain tumours. 2 , 3 We report a case of Listeria brain abscesses in a patient who was being treated for atypical parkinsonism. A good clinical outcome was achieved after appropriate antimicrobial therapy.
Insights
Listeria monocytogenes can cause rare brain abscesses, mimicking tumors. Prompt diagnosis and antimicrobial treatment led to a favorable outcome in a patient with atypical parkinsonism.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Listeria monocytogenes is an intracellular bacterium.
- It commonly causes meningitis in vulnerable populations.
- Less frequent Listeria infections include brain abscesses, cerebritis, and rhomboencephalitis.
Observation:
- The neuroradiological appearance of Listeria brain abscesses can resemble other brain abscesses.
- It may also mimic primary or metastatic brain tumors.
- A case is presented of Listeria brain abscesses in a patient with atypical parkinsonism.
Findings:
- Listeria brain abscesses are rare but serious CNS infections.
- Diagnosis can be challenging due to overlapping imaging features with other pathologies.
- Appropriate antimicrobial therapy is crucial for successful treatment.
Implications:
- Early recognition of Listeria CNS infections is vital for prompt treatment.
- This case highlights the importance of considering Listeria in CNS infections, even with atypical presentations.
- Effective antimicrobial strategies can lead to good clinical outcomes in Listeria brain abscesses.
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