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Listeria monocytogenes Infection of the Brain
Published on: October 2, 2018
Brainstem abscesses caused by Listeria monocytogenes: A case report
Jie Wang1, Yu-Chen Li1, Ke-Yu Yang2
1Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030000, Shanxi Province, China.
Background:
Intracranial Listeria infections are common in newborns and immunocompromised individuals, but brainstem abscesses are rare.
Case Summary:
We report a rare case of brainstem abscesses caused by Listeria monocytogenes in a previously healthy adult patient. The patient's magnetic resonance imaging examination showed multiple brain abscesses, and his second cerebrospinal fluid culture test indicated the presence of Listeria monocytogenes. Despite early empirical therapy, the patient's condition progressively deteriorated. Because the patient's abscesses were located in the brainstem and multiple lobes, surgery was not possible. The patient died 40 d after admission.
Conclusion:
This case highlights the importance of rational clinical use of drugs to avoid potentially serious infectious complications.
Insights
Brainstem abscesses caused by Listeria monocytogenes are rare, even in immunocompromised individuals. This case underscores the critical need for judicious antibiotic use to prevent severe infectious complications.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Intracranial Listeria infections typically affect newborns and immunocompromised patients.
- Brainstem abscesses are an uncommon manifestation of Listeria monocytogenes infection.
Observation:
- A previously healthy adult presented with multiple brain abscesses.
- Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed abscesses, and cerebrospinal fluid cultures identified Listeria monocytogenes.
Findings:
- Despite prompt empirical antibiotic treatment, the patient's condition worsened.
- Surgical intervention was not feasible due to the abscesses' location in the brainstem and multiple cerebral lobes.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for severe outcomes from Listeria monocytogenes brainstem abscesses.
- Rational and judicious antibiotic use is crucial to prevent serious infectious complications.
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