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Oral Transmission of Listeria monocytogenes in Mice via Ingestion of Contaminated Food
Published on: May 6, 2013
Post-infectious hydrocephalus complicating Listeria meningitis in a healthy newborn
Saskia D'Sa1, Ezzeldin Saleh2, Subhash Chaudhary2
1Pediatrics, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA.
Abstract:
Listeria monocytogenes is a relatively uncommon cause of foodborne infection in the general population. Most cases of Listeriosis occur among newborns, pregnant women, the elderly and those with impairment of cellular immunity. Neonatal Listeria meningitis is rare. We present a case of Listeria meningitis at the age of 15 days in a previously healthy neonate who presented with acute onset of fever, poor feeding and lethargy. Sepsis workup revealed L. monocytogenes identified in cerebrospinal fluid PCR and culture. The infant's course was complicated by transient syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone and subsequent hydrocephalus that required a ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement. Though rare, neonatal infections due to Listeria can present with meningitis leading to serious and devastating complications. Our case emphasises the importance of considering Listeria in cases of neonatal meningitis and the value of close follow-up of such cases through early detection and management of acute and long-term complications.
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