Relapsing granulomatous amoebic encephalitis

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology

Background:

• Free-living amoebae (FLA) like Naegleria fowleri, Acanthamoeba, and Balamuthia mandrillaris are rare but severe causes of central nervous system (CNS) infections.
• Naegleria fowleri causes primary amoebic meningoencephalitis, while Acanthamoeba and Balamuthia mandrillaris typically cause granulomatous amoebic encephalitis, often in immunocompromised individuals.
• Granulomatous amoebic encephalitis is nearly universally fatal despite treatment, and early diagnosis is difficult due to non-specific neurological symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of successfully treated relapsing Acanthamoeba encephalitis.
• To highlight the possibility of successful treatment in immunocompetent individuals.
• To contribute to the limited understanding of managing CNS infections caused by Acanthamoeba.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a patient with relapsing Acanthamoeba encephalitis.
• Detailed clinical presentation and diagnostic workup.
• Description of the treatment regimen and patient outcome.

Main Results:

• Successful treatment of relapsing Acanthamoeba encephalitis in an immunocompetent individual.
• Demonstration of a feasible therapeutic approach for this rare and often fatal condition.
• Resolution of neurological symptoms and long-term recovery.

Conclusions:

• Acanthamoeba encephalitis, even in relapsing forms and immunocompetent hosts, can be successfully treated.
• Early diagnosis and prompt, appropriate treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes.
• This case underscores the importance of considering FLA infections in neurological bệnh lý and the potential for effective therapeutic strategies.