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Rare post-operative intracranial abscess due to Serratia marcescens: what we can learn from it?

Wenzheng Liu1, Ridong Feng2, Xiaolin Song1

  • 1Department of Neurology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, Shandong, 266005, China.

BMC Infectious Diseases
|January 8, 2024
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

A rare case of Serratia marcescens causing a postoperative brain abscess in an adult male is detailed. This report highlights an uncommon pathogen leading to a brain abscess without typical infection signs.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Neurosurgery

Background:

  • Nosocomial infections are typically seen in pediatric patients.
  • Serratia marcescens is an uncommon cause of infection in adult surgical patients.
  • Intracranial abscesses are rare complications of neurosurgery.

Observation:

  • A 63-year-old male developed a postoperative intracranial abscess.
  • The patient had a left parietal mass (angiomatous meningioma, WHO I) resected.
  • Symptoms included worsening limb movements and CT findings of fluid collection and low-density areas.

Findings:

  • A large amount of pus was extracted from the surgical site.
  • Etiological tests identified Serratia marcescens infection.
  • The infection was linked to the presence of an artificial titanium mesh.
  • Antibiotic treatment was guided by drug susceptibility testing.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the potential for Serratia marcescens to cause asymptomatic brain abscesses post-surgery.
  • It highlights the importance of considering uncommon pathogens in postoperative infections.
  • Early identification and targeted antibiotic therapy are crucial for favorable outcomes.
Keywords:
AntibioticsHair removalIntracranial abscessSerratia marcescensTitanium mesh

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