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Listeria meningitis during pregnancy
Abstract:
Meningitis is the major pathologic manifestation of Listeria monocytogenes in the United States. Despite the fact that this organism has a well-known predilection for individuals who are pregnant or immunocompromised, to date, maternal listeric meningitis remains an unreported entity in the English literature. The authors report two cases of this disease and review the diagnosis and treatment of meningitis in general and, more specifically, of listeric meningitis in pregnancy. It is recommended that the initial treatment of bacterial meningitis during pregnancy should be a combination of ampicillin and gentamicin pending definitive identification of the causative organism and its antibiotic sensitivity pattern.
Insights
Maternal listeric meningitis, a rare complication of Listeria monocytogenes infection, is reported in two cases. Initial treatment with ampicillin and gentamicin is recommended for pregnant patients with bacterial meningitis.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
Background:
- Listeria monocytogenes commonly causes meningitis in pregnant and immunocompromised individuals.
- Maternal listeric meningitis is a rare but serious condition with limited reporting in English literature.
Observation:
- Two cases of maternal listeric meningitis are presented.
- The study reviews the diagnosis and treatment of meningitis, specifically in pregnant women.
Findings:
- Listeric meningitis in pregnancy is an underreported clinical entity.
- Ampicillin and gentamicin combination therapy is suggested for initial management of bacterial meningitis during pregnancy.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering Listeria monocytogenes in pregnant women with meningitis.
- Provides a recommended initial antibiotic regimen for suspected bacterial meningitis in pregnancy.
- Emphasizes the need for prompt diagnosis and treatment to improve maternal and fetal outcomes.