Suppurative Meningitis Complicated with Arthritis Caused by Streptococcus Suis Infection: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Streptococcus suis is a Gram-positive bacterium commonly found in pigs, posing emerging risks to human health.
• It can cause severe infections like meningitis, sepsis, and arthritis, particularly in individuals with occupational exposure to pigs or pork products.
• No prior cases of S. suis infection had been reported in Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province, China.

Observation:

• A 50-year-old butcher presented with fever, headache, joint pain, and abdominal pain, rapidly progressing to altered consciousness and hearing loss.
• Cerebrospinal fluid analysis and metagenomic sequencing confirmed Streptococcus suis-induced pyogenic meningitis complicated by arthritis.
• Early-stage abdominal pain is an unusual symptom for S. suis infection, raising concerns for potential peritonitis.

Findings:

• The patient showed significant improvement in symptoms and hearing after treatment with ceftriaxone, meropenem, linezolid, steroids, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
• Follow-up after two years indicated substantial hearing recovery, although residual hearing impairment remained.
• This case highlights the diagnostic challenge of atypical presentations, such as early abdominal pain, in S. suis infections.

Implications:

• Early and accurate diagnosis of Streptococcus suis infections is crucial, especially in high-risk occupational groups.
• Aggressive antibiotic therapy combined with supportive treatments like hyperbaric oxygen can be effective in managing severe S. suis infections and their complications, including hearing loss.
• Increased awareness and targeted science education are necessary for individuals with occupational exposure to prevent and manage S. suis infections.