Pneumococcal meningitis with a prolonged course in splenectomized patient

A 22-year-old woman had a remarkable late and poor inflammatory response to pneumococci invading the cerebrospinal fluid. Splenectomy 5 years previously following trauma and oral doxycycline therapy for 4 days prior to admission may explain the usual course. The importance of correct handling and of giving proper information to the splenectomized patient is stressed.