Probable acanthamoeba meningoencephalitis in a Korean child

Area of Science:

• Medical Mycology
• Parasitology
• Neuropathology

Background:

• Acanthamoeba species are ubiquitous protozoa found in water and soil.
• Infections can manifest in the eye (keratitis) or central nervous system (granulomatous amebic encephalitis).
• Subcutaneous granulomas are a less common presentation.

Observation:

• A 5-year-old Korean male presented with multiple subcutaneous, nontuberculous granulomas.
• The patient subsequently developed meningoencephalitis.
• Autopsy revealed amebic granulomas in subcutaneous tissue, adrenal gland, pancreas, liver, kidney, and brain.

Findings:

• Histopathological examination confirmed the presence of amebic granulomas.
• The causative agent was identified as an Acanthamoeba species.
• The infection led to severe inflammation and tissue destruction in multiple organs, including the brain.

Implications:

• This case underscores the potential for Acanthamoeba to cause severe, disseminated disease, even in immunocompetent individuals.
• Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving patient outcomes.
• Further research into the pathogenesis and treatment of Acanthamoeba infections is warranted.