Brainstem encephalitis and myelitis by Listeria monocytogenes: case report and literature review

Abstract

Brainstem encephalitis caused by Listeria monocytogenes is uncommon form of central nervous system listeriosis, but it is commonest form in immunocompetent patients. Even is rareness the combination of rhomboencephalitis and myelitis, caused by LM.

We report a inmunocompetent patient, 22 years old who consumed unpasteurized dairy products, he began to present headache, vomiting, impaired general condition and finally altered state of consciousness and death. He was hospitalized in the Instituto Neurológico de Colombia (INDEC) and the MRI showed Listeria monocytogenes rhomboencephalitis and extensive myelitis. We discuss the differences of our case and those reported in the literature.

Patients with involvement of brainstem of infection cause, is necessary to begin quickly antibiotic treatment for Listeria monocytogenes, and if there is a low response we must escalate another antibiotic treatment. We also recommend spinal column MRI, in order to rule out spinal cord involvement.

doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.7705/biomedica.v33i3.1482