Ruptured intraventricular brain abscesses due to Fusobacterium nucleatum with obstructive hydrocephalus: illustrative...

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Neurology

Background:

• Fusobacterium spp. are anaerobic bacteria, part of normal flora in various human tracts.
• These bacteria are frequently linked to conditions like periodontal disease and abscess formation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of brain abscesses caused by Fusobacterium nucleatum.
• To highlight the diagnostic challenges and effective identification methods for this pathogen.

Main Methods:

• A case study of brain abscesses complicated by ventriculitis and hydrocephalus.
• Bacterial sequencing using 16S ribosomal RNA was employed for pathogen identification.

Main Results:

• Fusobacterium nucleatum was identified as the causative agent of the brain abscesses.
• Standard bacterial cultures were negative, underscoring the need for advanced diagnostic techniques.

Conclusions:

• Empirical antimicrobial treatment for Fusobacterium nucleatum is recommended for brain abscess cases.
• 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing is a valuable tool for identifying microorganisms and guiding therapy in complex infections.