Pediatric neurolisteriosis: A diagnosis to consider even in the absence of immunodeficiency

Arch Pediatr. 2019 Apr;26(3):171-173. doi: 10.1016/j.arcped.2019.02.009. Epub 2019 Mar 15.

Abstract

Neurolisteriosis is known to affect vulnerable groups, for example neonates or children with immunodeficiency. This is a key point of the current clinical guidelines regarding pediatric meningitis. We report a rare case of neurolisteriosis in an immunocompetent infant, without the typical signs of listeriosis, which led to a delay in administering the appropriate antibiotherapy. This case illustrates the clinical heterogeneity of neurolisteriosis and the relevance of appropriate polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests when the clinical presentation differs from the current guidelines. This case also reminds us that raw or unpasteurized milk-based food products pose a risk even in immunocompetent infants or children.

Keywords: Listeria; Meningitis; Neurolisteriosis; PCR multiplex.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • DNA, Bacterial
  • Fever / microbiology
  • Humans
  • Immunocompetence*
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Listeria monocytogenes / genetics
  • Meningitis, Listeria / diagnosis*
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • Raw Foods / adverse effects
  • Spinal Puncture

Substances

  • DNA, Bacterial