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Proteus mirabilis meningitis and cerebral abscess in the newborn period
Archives of Disease in Childhood
|April 1, 1980
Abstract:
Three cases of Proteus mirabilis meningitis in neonates are reported, in 2 of which abscess formation was proved neuroradiologically. All neonates with P. mirabilis meningitis warrant a CAT scan, as does any newborn infant with meningitis who has a continuing pleocytosis after adequate treatment with antibiotics.
Insights
Proteus mirabilis meningitis in newborns can lead to abscesses. Early CT scans are crucial for neonates with P. mirabilis meningitis or persistent meningitis symptoms after antibiotic treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal infectious diseases
- Neurology
- Pediatric infectious diseases
Background:
- Proteus mirabilis is a Gram-negative bacterium that can cause serious infections.
- Meningitis in neonates is a critical condition requiring prompt diagnosis and management.
- Abscess formation is a potential complication of bacterial meningitis.
Observation:
- This report details three cases of Proteus mirabilis meningitis in neonates.
- Two of the neonates developed brain abscesses, confirmed by neuroradiological imaging.
- Persistent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pleocytosis after antibiotic treatment was observed in some cases.
Findings:
- Proteus mirabilis meningitis in neonates is associated with a significant risk of abscess formation.
- Neuroradiological imaging, specifically CT scans, is essential for detecting abscesses in these cases.
- Continuing pleocytosis despite antibiotics indicates a need for further investigation and potentially advanced imaging.
Implications:
- Neonates diagnosed with P. mirabilis meningitis should undergo computed tomography (CT) scans to rule out abscesses.
- Any newborn with meningitis exhibiting persistent pleocytosis post-antibiotic therapy warrants a CT scan.
- These findings underscore the importance of vigilant monitoring and advanced imaging in managing neonatal meningitis caused by P. mirabilis.