Bilateral functional hippocampectomy following recurrent bacterial meningitis: a case report

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Infectious Diseases
• Neurology

Background:

• The hippocampal formation is vital for memory consolidation.
• This brain region is susceptible to damage from various harmful stimuli.
• Severe hippocampal injury leading to complete memory formation loss is uncommon in bacterial meningitis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of Listeria monocytogenes meningitis with severe hippocampal atrophy.
• To highlight the impact of bacterial meningitis on memory formation.
• To emphasize the importance of hippocampal protection in meningitis treatment.

Main Methods:

• A 62-year-old female diagnosed with Listeria monocytogenes meningitis.
• Treatment involved a ventriculoperitoneal shunt due to hydrocephalus, complicated by shunt infections.
• Monitoring included assessment of cognitive functions, particularly memory.
• Imaging revealed severe bilateral hippocampal atrophy.

Main Results:

• The patient developed severe bilateral hippocampal atrophy following meningitis and shunt infections.
• Despite CSF drainage restoration, the patient permanently lost the ability to form new memories.
• Pre-existing memories, personality, and cognitive abilities remained intact.

Conclusions:

• Preserving hippocampal function is a primary objective in treating bacterial meningitis.
• Effective strategies to protect the hippocampal formation are essential for improving patient outcomes.
• This case underscores the devastating impact of meningitis on memory and the need for neuroprotective approaches.