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Published on: September 17, 2014
[Usefulness of MRA in an infant with cerebral infarction due to streptococcal meningitis]
T Tanabe1, T Morimoto, Y Kawasaki
1Department of Pediatrics, Hirakata City Hospital.
Abstract:
We described a 4-month-old boy with cerebral infarction due to streptococcal meningitis. He complained of cough and high fever for 2 days. On the next day he admitted to our hospital because of bad humor, drowsiness, and vomiting associated with high fever, respiratory failure and loss of consciousness. On admission, he had opisthotonic posturing, anisocoria and elevated deep tendon reflexes with left side dominance. The cerebrospinal fluid showed increased cells (564/mm3), protein (295 mg/dl), and decreased sugar (1 mg/dl). Streptococcus pneumoniae was detected in the cerebrospinal fluid. Despite intensive treatment by antibiotics, glycerol, and dexamethasone, general condition was worsened, MRI showed a high intense area along the territory of bilateral anterior cerebral arteries and left middle cerebral artery 3-D time-of-flight MRA revealed a decreased signal of these arteries, confirming cerebral infarction. Recanalization of the arteries were observed 17 days after the first MRA examination. Since complication of cerebral infarction influences the prognosis of meningitis, repetitive MRA is very beneficial in patients with bacterial meningitis in order to evaluate the vascular lesion.
Insights
Streptococcal meningitis can cause cerebral infarction in infants, leading to severe neurological complications. Early detection and monitoring of vascular lesions using magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) are crucial for managing this condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neuroradiology
Background:
- Bacterial meningitis, particularly Streptococcus pneumoniae, poses a significant risk of neurological complications in infants.
- Cerebral infarction is a serious complication that can arise from meningitis, impacting patient prognosis.
Observation:
- A 4-month-old infant presented with symptoms of severe meningitis, including fever, respiratory failure, and loss of consciousness.
- Cerebrospinal fluid analysis confirmed Streptococcus pneumoniae meningitis with elevated cells, protein, and low sugar.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and angiography (MRA) revealed cerebral infarction in the anterior and middle cerebral artery territories.
Findings:
- The infant developed cerebral infarction secondary to Streptococcus pneumoniae meningitis.
- Despite intensive treatment, the patient's condition initially worsened, highlighting the severity of the complication.
- Follow-up MRA demonstrated recanalization of affected cerebral arteries, indicating potential for recovery.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring for vascular complications in infants with bacterial meningitis.
- Repetitive MRA is recommended for evaluating vascular lesions and assessing prognosis in meningitis patients.
- Prompt identification and management of cerebral infarction are vital for improving outcomes in pediatric meningitis.
Related Concept Videos
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction

