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Updated: Jul 31, 2026

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Eosinophilic meningitis due to A. Cantonensis revealed at autopsy

Jayashri P Chaudhari1, Asha S Shenoy1, Naina A Goel1

  • 1Department of Pathology, Seth G. S. Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.

Indian Journal of Pathology & Microbiology
|April 18, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Angiostrongylus cantonensis, a parasitic nematode, causes eosinophilic meningitis. This case highlights a fatal outcome in a vulnerable patient, emphasizing the need for timely diagnosis and treatment of this emerging zoonotic disease.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Parasitology

Background:

  • Parasitic infections of the central nervous system (CNS) are increasingly prevalent due to global travel.
  • Angiostrongylus cantonensis (A. cantonensis) is the most common nematode cause of eosinophilic meningitis.
  • This zoonotic disease results from consuming undercooked snails or slugs harboring the parasite.

Observation:

  • A fatal case of eosinophilic meningitis due to A. cantonensis infection was identified post-mortem.
  • The deceased was a 32-year-old male with pre-existing mental challenges and orphan status.
  • The autopsy provided a rare opportunity to examine the pathological consequences of severe A. cantonensis infection.

Findings:

  • The autopsy confirmed eosinophilic meningitis as the cause of death.
  • Severe parasitic invasion of the CNS was evident.
  • The case underscores the potential severity of angiostrongyliasis, even in seemingly mild infections.

Implications:

  • This autopsy case highlights the critical importance of early diagnosis and appropriate treatment for Angiostrongylus cantonensis infections.
  • Public health awareness regarding the risks of consuming raw or undercooked mollusks is crucial.
  • Further research into severe or fatal presentations of eosinophilic meningitis is warranted, particularly in immunocompromised or vulnerable populations.
Keywords:
Angiostrongylus cantonensiseosinophilic meningitis

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