Group-A-streptococcal meningitis in a 7-year-old child – a rare pathogen in a non-immune compromised patient. (21st November 2011)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: van Zitteren, Leonarda Maria (LM); Arents, Niek LA; Halbertsma, Feico
• Is Part Of: BMJ case reports. Volume 2011
• Publication Date: 2011-11-21
• Subjects: Medicine -- Case studies -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1136/bcr.10.2011.4896
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-790X

Abstract

Abstract : A case is presented of meningitis in a 7-year-old female child caused by Group A streptococcus (GAS), a rare bacterial cause of meningitis, with a high rate of morbidity (46%) and mortality (10%). GAS is susceptible for empiric antibiotic therapy aimed at the most prevalent pathogens of meningitis. As GAS meningitis is typically associated with ear-nose-throat (ENT) infections, specific search for a reservoir is advised. Bacterial typification often demonstrates M-protein gene sequence type (EMM type) 1.0 associated with upper respiratory tract infections and also severe, invasive GAS infections. Follow-up investigation including neurologic developmental status and audiologic testing is necessary. Although GAS is a very uncommon cause of acute bacterial meningitis in children, high morbidity and mortality have been reported. Being associated with ENT infections, a search for a GAS reservoir is proposed. GASs are susceptible for common empiric antibiotic therapies in meningitis. Follow-up investigation is necessary.