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Infarction of the spinal cord as a complication of pneumococcal meningitis. Case report

H M Haupt, J P Kurlinski, N K Barnett

    Journal of Neurosurgery
    |July 1, 1981
    PubMed

    Insights

    Spinal cord infarction is a newly recognized complication of pneumococcal meningitis. This rare condition can lead to sudden paralysis and sensory loss in children.

    Area of Science:

    • Neurology
    • Infectious Diseases
    • Pediatrics

    Background:

    • Pneumococcal meningitis is a serious bacterial infection.
    • Spinal cord complications are rare but can be devastating.

    Observation:

    • A 5 1/2-year-old boy presented with Streptococcus pneumoniae meningitis.
    • He developed sudden flaccid paraplegia and loss of sensation below T-2.

    Findings:

    • Intraoperative findings revealed a pale spinal cord with dense adhesions.
    • This suggests arterial compromise and spinal cord infarction secondary to meningitis.

    Implications:

    • This case highlights a previously unrecognized association between pneumococcal meningitis and spinal cord infarction.
    • Early recognition and further research are crucial for managing this rare neurological complication.

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