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Published on: October 13, 2015
A fatal incidence of Yersinia enterocolitica meningitis. Case report
Alexander Dutschke1, Bo Langhoff Hønge1, Tine Birkelund Nielsen2
1Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
Abstract:
Yersinia enterocolitica is commonly seen as a gastrointestinal infection and is an extremely rare cause of bacterial meningitis. We report a case of Y. enterocolitica meningitis in a man in his 90 s. The patient presented with seizures, a diffuse pupillary response and a fever. An emergency CT scan of the brain showed no abnormalities, and he was initially treated empirically for bacterial meningitis. The microbiological diagnosis was made by culture of cerebrospinal fluid. Although relevant antibiotics were quickly provided and infectious parameters improved, he never regained consciousness and passed away after 12 days of hospitalization. Y. enterocolitica was later cultured from a package of pork brawn from his refrigerator, making it the likely source of infection.
Insights
Yersinia enterocolitica typically causes gastrointestinal illness but can lead to rare bacterial meningitis. This case highlights a fatal meningitis infection in an elderly man, likely from contaminated pork brawn.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Yersinia enterocolitica is a known enteric pathogen.
- Bacterial meningitis is a severe infection of the central nervous system.
- Y. enterocolitica is an extremely rare cause of meningitis.
Observation:
- An elderly male presented with symptoms of meningitis, including fever and seizures.
- Initial brain imaging was unremarkable.
- Cerebrospinal fluid culture confirmed Yersinia enterocolitica meningitis.
Findings:
- Despite prompt antibiotic treatment, the patient did not regain consciousness.
- The patient succumbed to the infection after 12 days.
- Y. enterocolitica was identified in pork brawn from the patient's refrigerator, suggesting the source.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for Y. enterocolitica to cause severe, invasive infections beyond the gastrointestinal tract.
- Highlights the importance of considering unusual pathogens in meningitis, especially with specific food exposures.
- Emphasizes food safety practices to prevent rare but severe infections.
