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MR findings in listerial rhombencephalitis
1Department of Pediatric Neurology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
AJNR. American Journal of Neuroradiology
|March 1, 1996
Summary
A rare case of rhombencephalitis caused by Listeria bacteria was diagnosed in a healthy man using clinical signs, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, blood cultures, and MR imaging. Prompt treatment led to a full recovery, highlighting the importance of early intervention.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Listerial rhombencephalitis is a rare but serious infection affecting the brainstem.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes in rhombencephalitis.
Observation:
- A previously healthy 40-year-old male presented with symptoms indicative of rhombencephalitis.
- Diagnostic workup included cerebrospinal fluid analysis, blood cultures, and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with listerial rhombencephalitis.
- Magnetic resonance imaging revealed characteristic findings of brainstem involvement.
- Cerebrospinal fluid analysis and blood cultures confirmed the presence of Listeria.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering Listeria monocytogenes in the differential diagnosis of rhombencephalitis, even in immunocompetent individuals.
- Prompt initiation of antibiotic therapy, guided by clinical suspicion and imaging, can lead to complete recovery.
- The findings emphasize the utility of integrated diagnostic approaches, combining clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and advanced neuroimaging for managing complex neurological infections.