Analysis of Clinical and Microbiological Features of Listeria monocytogenes Infection

Xingbing Lu1, Huan Yang1, Yanxi Wang1

  • 1Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China.

Insights

Listeria monocytogenes infections can cause severe meningitis, particularly in adults using immunosuppressants or hormone drugs. Early treatment with sensitive antibiotics like penicillins and carbapenems is crucial for better outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Neuroscience
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Listeria monocytogenes is a pathogen causing invasive infections, including meningitis.
  • Understanding risk factors and clinical features is vital for managing severe cases.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the demographics and clinical features of Listeria monocytogenes infections.
  • To identify predisposing conditions for severe Listeria meningitis.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 59 Listeria monocytogenes cases from 2009-2020.
  • Epidemiological and clinical data extracted from electronic medical records.
  • Univariate and multifactorial logistic regression to identify risk factors for meningitis.

Main Results:

  • 42.37% of patients developed neuroinvasive infection.
  • Interleukin-6 (IL-6), CD3+T, CD4+T, and CD8+T cell levels were elevated.
  • Hormone drug use (OR=3.21) and immunosuppressants (OR=3.06) predicted severe meningitis.
  • Ampicillin, carbapenems, quinolones, and beta-lactamase inhibitors were common treatments.

Conclusions:

  • Listeria infection alters immune cell profiles (IL-6, T cells).
  • Long-term immunosuppressant and hormone use are risk factors for severe adult Listeria infections.
  • Early empiric treatment should include sensitive antibiotics like penicillins and carbapenems.
Abstract