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Pig's ear: Streptococcus suis Meningitis and its associated inner ear implications
S Sena Esteves1, J Carvalho de Almeida1, J Abrunhosa1
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Oporto Hospital Center, Oporto, Portugal.
Idcases
|September 22, 2017
Summary
Streptococcus suis meningitis can cause permanent hearing loss, even after successful treatment. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for individuals handling swine to prevent severe neurological complications.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Streptococcus suis is a zoonotic bacterium prevalent in Asia.
- S. suis infections often manifest as meningitis, posing risks to swine handlers.
- Occupational exposure, like cuts while handling pork, increases infection risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of S. suis meningitis in a butcher.
- To highlight the potential for persistent inner-ear dysfunction post-meningitis.
- To emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 48-year-old male butcher with S. suis meningitis.
- Diagnostic procedures included cerebrospinal fluid and blood cultures.
- Treatment involved empirical antibiotics (ceftriaxone, vancomycin) and dexamethasone.
Main Results:
- S. suis was identified in cerebrospinal fluid and blood.
- The patient recovered from meningitis but experienced persistent bilateral hearing and vestibular loss.
- A subsequent cochlear implant procedure had a poor outcome.
Conclusions:
- Inner-ear dysfunction is a frequent complication of S. suis meningitis.
- Physicians must maintain a high index of suspicion for S. suis in at-risk individuals.
- Prompt treatment is essential to mitigate long-term consequences like hearing loss.