Brain Abscess Due to Lactobacillus Fermentum in an Uncontrolled Diabetic
Supraja Achuthanandan1, Amit Dhaliwal1, Tiffany Lu1
1Internal Medicine, Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, USA.
Abstract:
Brain abscesses are collections of infectious fluid within the brain parenchyma, with mortality ranging from 15% to 31%. They can result from direct inoculation or via hematogenous spread. Streptococcus and staphylococcus species and Gram-negative bacilli are common bacteria responsible for brain abscesses. In immunocompromised patients, such as those with organ transplants or HIV, brain abscesses can be caused by fungi, mycobacteria, or parasites. Lactobacillus is a very rare cause of brain abscess and has only been observed in a few case reports. We report a case of a woman with uncontrolled diabetes who presented with altered mental status and was found to have a brain abscess secondary to Lactobacillus fermentum.
Insights
Brain abscesses are serious infections. This case highlights Lactobacillus fermentum as a rare cause, particularly in patients with uncontrolled diabetes.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Brain abscesses are life-threatening collections of pus within the brain, often caused by common bacteria like Streptococcus and Staphylococcus.
- Mortality rates for brain abscesses range significantly from 15% to 31%.
Observation:
- This report details a rare case of brain abscess caused by Lactobacillus fermentum.
- The patient presented with altered mental status, and uncontrolled diabetes was a significant comorbidity.
Findings:
- Lactobacillus, typically found in the gut microbiome, is an extremely uncommon pathogen for brain abscesses.
- The abscess was confirmed to be secondary to Lactobacillus fermentum infection.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering unusual pathogens in brain abscesses, especially in immunocompromised or comorbid patients.
- Highlights the need for broad microbiological investigation in complex neurological infections.
Related Concept Videos
Microbial Fermentation
Microbes in Food Production
Microbes in the Production of Fermented Foods
Diabetic Ketoacidosis l: Introduction
Diabetic Ketoacidosis ll: Pathophysiology
Brain Abscess l: Introduction


