Recurrent meningitis and brain abscess caused by Eikenella corrodens

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Eikenella corrodens is an unusual cause of central nervous system infections.
• Otitis media and mastoidectomy are risk factors for contiguous spread of infection to the brain.

Observation:

• A patient with a history of otitis media and mastoidectomy presented with recurrent meningitis.
• Brain abscesses were identified as a complication of the recurrent meningitis.

Findings:

• Cultures confirmed Eikenella corrodens as the causative pathogen for both meningitis and brain abscess.
• The patient's prior ear surgeries may have predisposed them to this specific infection.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering Eikenella corrodens in CNS infections, especially in patients with otologic history.
• Prompt diagnosis and targeted antibiotic therapy are crucial for managing Eikenella-related brain abscesses and meningitis.
• Further research into the pathogenesis of Eikenella CNS infections in patients with otologic disease is warranted.