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Assessing Bacterial Invasion of Cardiac Cells in Culture and Heart Colonization in Infected Mice Using Listeria monocytogenes
Published on: May 27, 2015
[Listeria monocytogenes rhomboencephalitis. Clinical case]
M Bravo1, S Ferrer, S Trujillo
1Servicio de Neurología, Hospital Militar, Santiago de Chile.
Summary
A previously healthy woman developed rhomboencephalitis due to Listeria monocytogenes infection. Prompt antibiotic treatment led to significant clinical recovery and imaging improvements.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neuroimaging
Background:
- Rhomboencephalitis is a rare but serious brainstem inflammation.
- Listeria monocytogenes is an opportunistic pathogen that can cause severe neurological infections.
Observation:
- A 44-year-old female presented with altered consciousness, left cerebellar signs, cranial nerve palsies (V, X, XII), and sensory deficits.
- Cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed inflammatory markers, and blood/CSF cultures confirmed Listeria monocytogenes.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed characteristic rhomboencephalitis lesions.
Findings:
- The patient received prompt antibiotic therapy targeting Listeria monocytogenes.
- Clinical symptoms showed progressive improvement following treatment.
- Follow-up MRI demonstrated regression of brainstem hyperintensities.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering Listeria monocytogenes in suspected rhomboencephalitis cases.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- Neuroimaging plays a vital role in diagnosing and monitoring rhomboencephalitis progression.
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