Emerging Infection with Elizabethkingia Meningoseptica in Neonate. A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Medical Microbiology
• Neonatal Medicine
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Elizabethkingia meningoseptica are Gram-negative bacteria found in the environment.
• These bacteria are associated with nosocomial infections, particularly in neonatal intensive care units.
• Contaminated medical equipment is a potential source of Elizabethkingia meningoseptica transmission.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of neonatal meningitis caused by Elizabethkingia meningoseptica.
• To describe the clinical presentation and management of this rare infection in a premature infant.
• To highlight the potential for severe neurological sequelae and the importance of intensive care.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a premature female infant (33 weeks' gestational age) with suspected bacterial meningitis.
• Clinical monitoring, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and bacterial culture were performed.
• Antibiotic therapy was initiated and adjusted based on sensitivity testing and clinical response.
• Imaging studies were used to assess neurological complications.

Main Results:

• The infant developed fever, psychomotor agitation, and food refusal.
• Elizabethkingia meningoseptica was isolated from cerebrospinal fluid, sensitive to Vancomycin, Rifampicin, and Clarithromycin.
• Initial antibiotic treatment was modified, leading to clinical improvement.
• Cerebrospinal fluid normalized after 6 weeks, but periventriculitis and hydrocephalus required neurosurgical intervention.

Conclusions:

• Elizabethkingia meningoseptica poses a severe infection risk in neonates.
• High mortality and neurological sequelae are associated with this infection.
• Intensive care and multidisciplinary interventions are critical for managing these complex cases.