Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 16, 2026
05:02
Listeria monocytogenes Infection of the Brain
Published on: October 2, 2018
13.3K
Two cases of listeria rhombencephalitis
Christopher Thomas Mansbridge1, Irina Grecu1, Jimmy Sw Li Voon Chong1
1Royal Hampshire County Hospital, Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Romsey Road, Winchester, Hampshire, SO22 5DG, United Kingdom.
Idcases
|December 20, 2017
Summary
Listeria rhombencephalitis (LRE) is a rare brainstem infection. Early treatment is crucial for survival, even with negative cultures, especially in at-risk patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Listeria rhombencephalitis (LRE) is a rare, potentially fatal infection affecting the hindbrain.
- Neurological symptoms can be diverse, making diagnosis challenging.
- Prompt antimicrobial therapy is critical to reduce mortality and morbidity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report two cases of LRE with contrasting clinical presentations and disease courses.
- To highlight the diagnostic challenges associated with LRE.
- To emphasize the importance of considering Listeria in meningoencephalitis, even with negative cultures.
Main Methods:
- Case report of two patients diagnosed with LRE.
- Review of clinical features, diagnostic workup, and treatment outcomes.
- Discussion of diagnostic challenges and treatment strategies for LRE.
Main Results:
- Two cases of LRE presented with distinct clinical features and disease progression.
- The study underscores the difficulty in diagnosing LRE, particularly when initial cultures are negative.
- Despite rarity, Listeria must be considered in suspected meningoencephalitis.
Conclusions:
- Empirical treatment for meningoencephalitis should include coverage for Listeria, especially in high-risk individuals.
- Early recognition and treatment of LRE are vital for improving patient outcomes.
- Consideration of Listeria is paramount in diagnosing meningoencephalitis, irrespective of culture results.
