Eosinophilic meningitis caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis in an infant: A case report

Mingsheng Ma1, Mengqi Zhang, Zhengqing Qiu

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.

Medicine
|June 15, 2018
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Parasitic eosinophilic meningitis in infants caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis can be effectively treated with levamisole and prednisone. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment lead to full recovery, highlighting the importance of physician awareness in endemic areas.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Parasitology

Background:

  • Parasitic eosinophilic meningitis is a rare and challenging diagnosis in infants due to atypical presentations.
  • Angiostrongylus cantonensis is a significant cause of eosinophilic meningitis in Southeast Asia.

Observation:

  • An infant presented with fever, irritability, and refusal to walk.
  • Cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed eosinophilia and third-stage Angiostrongylus cantonensis larvae.

Findings:

  • Empiric treatment with levamisole and prednisone was initiated.
  • The infant's symptoms resolved within 72 hours, with full recovery after 4 weeks of treatment.

Implications:

  • Physicians should consider Angiostrongylus cantonensis in infants with unexplained neurological symptoms and eosinophilia in endemic regions.
  • Timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes in pediatric parasitic meningitis.
  • This case underscores the importance of recognizing and managing parasitic infections presenting as meningitis in infants.

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