An Unusual Case of Neurobrucellosis Presenting as Acute Flaccid Paralysis. Issue 1 (28th January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Boparai, Sukhmani; Daoud, Nour; Dominguez, Anibal; Bawa, Danish; Vyas, Aditya; Grier, Laurie; Motayar, Nasim
• Is Part Of: Infectious diseases in clinical practice. Volume 30:Issue 1(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-01-28
• Subjects: neurobrucellosis -- acute flaccid paralysis -- acute flaccid myelitis -- Brucella; Communicable diseases -- Periodicals; Communicable Diseases -- Periodicals; Communicable diseases; Periodicals; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 616.9
• DOI: 10.1097/IPC.0000000000001095
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1056-9103

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare clinical entity that can lead to significant mortality and morbidity. It has a broad differential including various autoimmune and infectious etiologies, which can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Acute flaccid myelitis as presentation of neurobrucellosis has rarely been reported and poses a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge to clinicians. Case Summary: Here we present a case of a young female presenting with acute onset, rapidly progressive, flaccid paralysis caused by Brucella species. This is an atypical presentation of a rare infection in this region. The infection was likely acquired by consuming unpasteurized goat cheese. The patient made a near-complete neurological recovery after treatment with ceftriaxone, doxycycline, and rifampin. Conclusions: The catastrophic presentation of our patient makes it relevant for clinicians to be cognizant of this entity.