Invasive Streptococcus Agalactiae Causing Meningitis, Ventriculitis, and Endocarditis in a Non-Pregnant Adult

Amr Abdelradi1, Andrew Murphy2, Amy M Ahasic2,3,4

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, Norwalk Hospital, Nuvance Health, Norwalk, USA.

Cureus
|December 14, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Streptococcus agalactiae can cause serious infections like meningitis and endocarditis in adults. This case highlights a rare simultaneous occurrence in an elderly patient, stressing the need for swift diagnosis and treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Bacteriology
  • Clinical Medicine

Background:

  • Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Strep) is a known pathogen in neonates and pregnant women.
  • Increasing recognition of S. agalactiae as a pathogen in non-pregnant adults, causing skin/soft tissue infections, UTIs, and pneumonia.
  • Meningitis and endocarditis are rare but severe S. agalactiae complications, particularly in older adults.

Observation:

  • A 69-year-old woman with uncontrolled Type 2 diabetes mellitus presented with a rare simultaneous infection.
  • The patient experienced both S. agalactiae meningitis and endocarditis.
  • This presentation is uncommon, especially in non-pregnant adults.

Findings:

  • The case demonstrates a simultaneous presentation of S. agalactiae meningitis and endocarditis.
  • This highlights the potential for severe invasive disease in immunocompromised adults.
  • Prompt identification and management are crucial for favorable outcomes.

Implications:

  • Emphasizes the need for heightened clinical suspicion for invasive S. agalactiae infections in at-risk adult populations.
  • Underscores the importance of early diagnosis and aggressive treatment to reduce morbidity and mortality.
  • Contributes to understanding the spectrum of S. agalactiae disease in adults, particularly those with comorbidities like diabetes.

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