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Abstract:
Brain abscess is an infrequent complication of meningitis, including cases caused by Gram-negative enteric bacteria in neonates. Because brain abscesses recently developed in four of five neonates with Citrobacter diversus meningitis at one institution, we reviewed cases of C diversus meningitis reported in the literature and those enrolled in the Neonatal Meningitis Cooperative Study Groups and reported to the Centers for Disease Control. Seventy-four cases in neonates were identified, and a brain abscess had developed in 41 (77%) of 53 patients for whom the information was available. This high frequency indicates the need for rapid diagnosis of this complication of C diversus meningitis.
Insights
Citrobacter diversus meningitis in newborns can lead to brain abscesses. This study found a high frequency of brain abscesses in neonates with this specific meningitis, highlighting the need for prompt diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal infectious diseases
- Pediatric neurology
- Bacterial meningitis complications
Background:
- Brain abscess is a rare complication of meningitis.
- Gram-negative enteric bacteria can cause neonatal meningitis.
- Citrobacter diversus meningitis is a specific concern in newborns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency of brain abscesses in neonates with Citrobacter diversus meningitis.
- To review existing literature and case data for C. diversus meningitis.
- To emphasize the importance of early diagnosis for this complication.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of Citrobacter diversus meningitis cases.
- Analysis of data from Neonatal Meningitis Cooperative Study Groups.
- Inclusion of cases reported to the Centers for Disease Control.
- Identification of 74 neonatal cases of C. diversus meningitis.
Main Results:
- Brain abscesses developed in 41 out of 53 (77%) neonates with C. diversus meningitis.
- A recent cluster of cases at one institution prompted further investigation.
- The high incidence of brain abscesses was confirmed through data analysis.
Conclusions:
- Citrobacter diversus meningitis in neonates has a high rate of brain abscess formation.
- Rapid diagnosis of brain abscess is crucial for affected newborns.
- This finding underscores the severity of C. diversus meningitis in the neonatal population.