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Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis in an infant

Neetu Mittal1, Lokesh Mahajan2, Zahid Hussain2

  • 1Department of Microbiology, QRG Central Hospital and Research Centre, Faridabad, Haryana, India.

Indian Journal of Medical Microbiology
|August 20, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis, a rare and fatal brain infection, was diagnosed in an infant. Early detection of Naegleria fowleri in cerebrospinal fluid is critical for potential management of this deadly disease.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Parasitology

Background:

  • Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) is a rare, devastating central nervous system infection.
  • It is caused by the free-living amoeba Naegleria fowleri, typically affecting immunocompetent individuals.
  • PAM has an extremely high mortality rate, underscoring the need for rapid diagnosis and intervention.

Observation:

  • A previously healthy 8-month-old female infant presented with acute meningoencephalitis symptoms.
  • Cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed motile amoebic trophozoites.
  • Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) confirmed the presence of Naegleria fowleri.

Findings:

  • The case highlights the rapid progression of Naegleria fowleri infection in an infant.
  • Despite broad-spectrum antimicrobial and antifungal treatment, the patient's condition deteriorated.
  • The isolation of Naegleria fowleri underscores its etiological role in the observed meningoencephalitis.

Implications:

  • Increased clinical awareness and prompt diagnostic measures for PAM are crucial.
  • Early identification of Naegleria fowleri is essential for timely and appropriate management strategies.
  • This case emphasizes the urgent need for improved therapeutic options and public health awareness regarding PAM prevention.

Keywords:
MortalityNaegleria fowleriparasiteprimary amoebic meningoencephalitis

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