Brainstem encephalitis caused by Coxiella burnetii

J Clin Neurosci. 2014 Apr;21(4):699-701. doi: 10.1016/j.jocn.2013.05.021. Epub 2013 Aug 12.

Abstract

Coxiella burnetii is the causative agent of Q fever, which rarely causes neurologic symptoms. We describe a patient who presented with progressive sensory changes, dizziness, and motor weakness. The cerebrospinal fluid revealed pleocytosis, and MRI indicated the presence of a diffuse brain stem lesion. An indirect immunofluorescence test revealed antibodies against C. burnetii. The symptoms improved with antibiotics against C. burnetii. Q fever should be considered as a possible etiology of brainstem encephalitis.

Keywords: Brainstem encephalitis; Coxiella burnetii; Q fever.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Brain Stem / pathology
  • Coxiella burnetii
  • Encephalitis / drug therapy
  • Encephalitis / etiology*
  • Encephalitis / pathology
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Q Fever / complications*
  • Q Fever / drug therapy
  • Q Fever / pathology
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents