When upper respiratory tract infections go rogue: A case report of Arcanobacterium haemolyticum Cerebral Abscess. (2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Adams, Nehkonti; Snitchler, Christopher; Kong, Michael; Ikeda, Daniel; Skinner, Anthony; Rodriguezbarrantes, Juan; Leverette, Ryan; Bell, Randy
• Is Part Of: IDCases. Volume 23(2020)
• Publication Date: 2021
• Subjects: Cerebral abscess -- Arcanobacterium haemolyticum -- Sinusitis -- Preseptal cellulitis; Communicable diseases -- Periodicals; Communicable Diseases -- Case Reports; Communicable Diseases -- Periodicals; Communicable diseases; Periodicals; 616.9
• DOI: 10.1016/j.idcr.2020.e01014
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2214-2509

Abstract

Abstract: Arcanobacterium haemolyticum is an extremely rare cause of cerebral abscess. We present a unique case of Arcanobacterium haemolyticum sinusitis complicated by preseptal cellulitis and cerebral abscess. The patient initially presented with pharyngitis and then developed sinus congestion, headache and facial pain. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a right gyrus rectus cerebral abscess and paranasal sinus infection. The patient underwent endoscopic sinus surgery and cultures revealed Arcanobacterium haemolyticum . Repeat imaging revealed maturation and progression of intracranial abscess. The abscess was drained and patient was treated with parenteral and oral antibiotics until complete clinical and radiological remission. This case highlights the importance of recognizing Arcanobacterium haemolyticum as a cause of invasive disease in immunocompetent hosts.