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Published on: February 23, 2014
Recurrent meningitis due to pneumococci and non-typable Haemophilus influenzae in a child with a Mondini malformation
Abstract:
An eight-year-old boy with a congenital inner ear malformation and recurrent otitis media had three episodes of bacteriologically confirmed meningitis within seven months. The first episode was caused by pneumococci, the other two by non-typable Haemophilus influenzae. All episodes were characterized by an abrupt onset. The CSF cultures were positive within 0.5 to 12 hours after the onset of symptoms. Despite misleading laboratory studies, surgical exploration revealed a CSF fistula associated to the inner ear anomaly. No further episodes occurred after the fistula was closed. Careful roentgenographic evaluation, including recently introduced special computed tomography (CT) methods, is indicated in recurrent meningitis. In addition, such evaluations should be considered even after the first episode, when special clinical features suggest a CSF fistula. Such features include an extremely rapid onset and detection of common non-invasive bacteria as causative agents, as illustrated by the present case.
Insights
Recurrent meningitis in a child was linked to an inner ear defect causing a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistula. Surgical closure of the fistula resolved the meningitis, highlighting the importance of advanced imaging for diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pediatric Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Recurrent meningitis poses diagnostic challenges, particularly in pediatric cases with congenital anomalies.
- Inner ear malformations can predispose individuals to central nervous system infections.
Observation:
- An eight-year-old boy experienced three episodes of bacterial meningitis within seven months.
- Causative agents included Streptococcus pneumoniae and non-typable Haemophilus influenzae.
- Episodes presented with abrupt onset, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cultures turned positive rapidly.
Findings:
- Despite initial diagnostic ambiguity, surgical exploration revealed a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistula associated with a congenital inner ear malformation.
- Closure of the CSF fistula successfully prevented further meningitis episodes.
Implications:
- Advanced imaging techniques, such as specialized computed tomography (CT) scans, are crucial for diagnosing CSF fistulas in recurrent meningitis.
- Consideration of CSF fistulas should extend beyond the first meningitis episode, especially with rapid onset and common bacterial pathogens.
Related Concept Videos
Bacterial Meningitis
Viral Meningitis
Cryptococcal Meningitis
Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction
Bacterial Meningitis II: Pathophysiology
Pneumonia I: Introduction

