Atypical Presentation Resembling Acute Leukoencephalopathy With Restricted Diffusion in Staphylococcus aureus
Jai Ranjan1, Arvinder Wander2, Navdeep Kaur3
1Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bathinda, Bathinda, IND.
Abstract:
Meningoencephalitis refers to inflammation of the brain and meninges. It can be caused by various organisms, such as Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and so on. Staphylococcus aureus causing meningoencephalitis is relatively rare. It is mainly encountered in patients who have undergone surgeries in the past. Acute leukoencephalopathy with restricted diffusion (ALERD) is a type of encephalopathy that can involve both white and grey matter of the brain, and it has a characteristic "bright tree appearance" on MRI. It can be because of various infectious etiologies or caused by various toxins. Neurological sequelae are observed in about two out of three cases. Here, we describe a case of S. aureus meningoencephalitis with ALERD, which has been seldom reported. More awareness about this is required among primary care physicians for timely diagnosis and management to prevent any complications.
Insights
Staphylococcus aureus can cause meningoencephalitis, a rare brain and meninges inflammation. This case highlights its association with acute leukoencephalopathy with restricted diffusion (ALERD), a condition seldom reported.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Meningoencephalitis involves brain and meninges inflammation, typically caused by common pathogens.
- Staphylococcus aureus is a rare cause of meningoencephalitis, often seen post-surgery.
Observation:
- A rare case of Staphylococcus aureus meningoencephalitis is presented.
- The patient also exhibited acute leukoencephalopathy with restricted diffusion (ALERD), a condition with characteristic MRI findings.
Findings:
- This report details a seldom-documented instance of S. aureus meningoencephalitis co-occurring with ALERD.
- The "bright tree appearance" on MRI is a key diagnostic feature of ALERD.
Implications:
- Increased physician awareness of this rare S. aureus meningoencephalitis and ALERD association is crucial.
- Timely diagnosis and management are essential to prevent neurological sequelae.
Related Concept Videos
Atypical Pneumonia
Viral Meningitis
Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction
Bacterial Meningitis II: Pathophysiology
Encephalitis l: Introduction
Brain Abscess l: Introduction


