Étiologies des méningites et méningoencéphalites dans les services de réanimation polyvalente à Libreville de 2020 à 2021 / Etiologies of meningitis and meningoencephalitis in intensive care units of Libreville from 2020 to 2021

Introduction. Les méningites/méningo-encéphalites sont des urgences médicales d'étiologies variées. La technique de diagnostic Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) permet de détecter la présence de bactéries et de virus dans le liquide céphalorachidien (LCR) avec une spécificité et une sensibilité ≥ 90%. L'objectif de cette étude était d'identifier en utilisant cette technique, les principaux germes responsables des méningites et méningo-encéphalites en réanimation à Libreville. Patients et méthodes. Nous avons mené une étude transversale allant d'octobre 2020 à septembre 2021. Les critères d'inclusion étaient : être admis en réanimation au CHUL et à l'HIAOBO pour suspicion de méningite ou méningo-encéphalite, obtenir l'accord des familles pour l'analyse du liquide céphalorachidien (LCR) par multiplex PCR. Les variables étudiées étaient : la fréquence, les données sociodémographiques, les aspects cliniques et paracliniques. Résultats. Soixante et onze patients ont répondu aux critères d'inclusion. L'âge moyen était de 21,1 ± 10,4 ans et le sex ratio de 1,2. Les motifs d'admission étaient l'altération de l'état de conscience (77%) et l'état de mal épileptique (21%). Plasmodium falciparum a été retrouvé seul chez 38 patients (53,5%) et associé à Listeria monocytogenes chez 4 patients (1,4%). Les méningo-encéphalites à Herpès simplex virus ont été observées chez 4 patients (1,4%) dont l'âge variait entre 40 ans et moins de 50 ans. Un patient (1,4%) présentait une coinfection à S. épidermidis, flavivirus et alphavirus. Des méningo-encéphalites sans germes ont été observées chez 5 patients (%). Conclusion. Le principal germe responsable de méningoencéphalite en réanimation à Libreville est P. falciparum. Des virus tels que le flavivirus et l'alphavirus non détectés par les méthodes usuelles ont aussi été mis en évidence grâce au multiplex PCR.

Introduction. Meningitis/meningoencephalitis are medical emergencies of various etiologies. The Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technique allows the detection of the presence of bacteria and viruses in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) with a specificity and sensibility of above 90%. The aim of this study was to identify the most common germs responsible for meningitis and meningoencephalitis in the intensive care units of Libreville using this technique,. Patients and methods. We conducted a transversal study from October 2020 to September 2021. Inclusion criteria were: being admitted to intensive care unit of CHUL and HIAOBO for suspicion of meningitis or meningoencephalitis and having the parent's approval for multiplex PCR analysis of CSF. Variables studied included frequency, sociodemographic data, clinical and paraclinical aspects. Results. Seventy one patients were included. Mean age was 21.1 ± 10.4 years and the sex ratio was 1.2. Reasons for admission were altered consciousness (77%) and epilepsy (21%). Plasmodium (P) faciparum was detected alone in 38 cases (53.5%) and associated to Listeria monocytogenes in 4 patients (5.6%). Herpex simplex viral meningoencephalitis was observed in 4 patients (5.6%) aged between 40 and less than 50 years. One patient (1.4%) had co-infection with S. epidermidis, flavivirus and alphavirus. Meningoencephalitis with no germs was found in 5 patients (7%). Conclusion. The main etiology of meningoencephalitis in intensive care units of Libreville is P. falciparum. Viruses not detected by usual methods like flavivirus and alphavirus were detected by multiplex PCR.

Angiostrongylus cantonensis en Achatina fulica en la provincia del Napo, Ecuador y el riesgo incrementado de angiostrongiliasis / Angiostrongylus cantonensis in Achatina fulica in Napo province, Ecuador and the increased risk of angiostrongyliasis

Introducción: Angiostrongylus cantonensis es reconocido como uno de los principales patógenos causantes de la meningoencefalitis eosinofílica, fue identificado en Ecuador por primera vez en 2008. Métodos: se recolectaron 1476 ejemplares de Achatina fulica con el método de captura por unidad de esfuerzo durante 30 minutos, en 3 cantones de la provincia del Napo, con el fin de establecer la prevalencia de infección por A. cantonensis Resultados: el porcentaje total de caracoles infectados fue de 46,5% (687/1476). Conclusiones: Los resultados revelan una amplia distribución de A. fulica infectado con A. cantonensis, lo que, sumado a la gran cantidad de hospederos definitivos presentes, indica que un número considerable de personas tiene riesgo de adquirir angiostrongiliasis. Se necesita intervenciones educativas comunitaria orientadas a formación sanitaria, recalcando el riesgo de adquirir la infección parasitaria, principalmente por el consumo de A. fulica, crudos y/o con cocción inadecuada, principal forma de contagio. Además, se recomienda vigilancia rigurosa y control de los hospedadores involucrados, saneamiento ambiental, haciendo insistencia en factores relacionados con los hábitos biológico del caracol gigante africano, entre ello alimentos (vegetales), suelos y derivados del caracol de uso artesanal; para prevenir la aparición de casos esporádicos y de brotes de la enfermedad(AU)

Introduction: Angiostrongylus cantonensis is recognized as one of the main pathogens that cause eosinophilic meningoencephalitis, it was identified in Ecuador for the first time in 2008. Methods: 1476 specimens of Achatina fulica were collected using the capture method per unit of effort for 30 minutes, in 3 cantons of the Napo province, in order to establish the prevalence of infection by A. cantonensis Results: the total percentage of infected snails was 46.5% (687/1476). Conclusions: The results reveal a wide distribution of A. fulica infected with A. cantonensis, which, added to the large number of definitive hosts present, indicates that a considerable number of people are at risk of acquiring angiostrongyliasis. Community educational interventions aimed at health training are needed, emphasizing the risk of acquiring parasitic infection, mainly due to the consumption of A. fulica, raw and/or inadequately cooked, the main form of contagion. In addition, rigorous surveillance and control of the hosts involved, environmental sanitation, insisting on factors related to the biological habits of the giant African snail, including food (vegetables), soil and snail derivatives for artisanal use; to prevent the appearance of sporadic cases and outbreaks of the disease(AU)

Meningoencephalitis caused by Bovine alphaherpesvirus 5 in Pernambuco, Brazil / [Meningoencefalite causada pelo Bovine alphaherpesvirus 5 em Pernambuco, Brasil]

Objetivou-se descrever a ocorrência do Bovine alphaherpesvirus 5 (BoHV5) como causa de meningoencefalite não supurativa em bovinos do estado de Pernambuco, Brasil. Para tanto, 32 amostras de sistema nervoso embebidas em parafina foram obtidas de animais acometidos por doenças neurológicas atendidos na Clínica de Bovinos de Garanhuns da Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco (CBG-UFRPE), entre 2012 e 2016. As amostras foram analisadas quanto à presença do gene da glicoproteína C do BoHV5 por reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR). Dois animais (6,25%) tiveram resultado positivo à PCR, e sua análise de sequenciamento indicou 100% de similaridade para o BoHV5. Os resultados histopatológicos desses dois animais revelaram lesões multifocais de meningoencefalite não supurativa associada à polioencefalomalácia, presença de corpúsculos de inclusão basofílicos, infiltração de células de Gitter e presença de manguitos perivasculares. A PCR se mostra uma importante ferramenta para diferenciação das infecções por BoHV5 de outras enfermidades neurológicas de bovinos, especialmente a raiva.(AU)

Atezolizumab-induced encephalitis in a patient with metastatic breast cancer: a case report and review of neurological adverse events associated with checkpoint inhibitors

Immune-mediated encephalitis as an adverse event due to checkpoint inhibitors is very rare. We describe herein the case of a 38-year-old woman with metastatic triple-negative breast cancer who developed seizures and somnolence twelve days after receiving the first dose of Atezolizumab. Work up ruled out all infectious etiologies, and the patient was eventually diagnosed with immune-mediated meningoencephalitis. Symptoms recovered with a high-dose of steroids, and she was found to have an excellent response on follow-up imaging, which raised the question of whether a relationship exists between the occurrence, and severity of the adverse event and the response to treatment. Only a few other cases of atezolizumab-related encephalitis have been published. Early recognition and treatment are crucial; the reason why we are describing this case along with a review of the literature and a review on all the neurological immune-related adverse events due to the different checkpoint inhibitors.

Detection and characterization of a coxsackievirus B2 strain associated with acute meningoencephalitis, Brazil, 2018

Abstract Although different etiological agents can cause acute meningoencephalitis, this syndrome is usually associated with viruses. Among these, enteroviruses play a significant role. Here, we describe a fatal case of meningoencephalitis in a previously healthy teenager. Real-time RT-PCR and cell culture assays were performed with serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from a clinically diagnosed meningoencephalitis case that occurred in Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil. Coxsackievirus B2 (CVB2) was identified. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the identified CVB2 was genetically related to strains known to cause neurological diseases. This case highlights the importance of continuous laboratory surveillance of central nervous system infections.

Listeria monocytogenes meningoencephalitis in a patient with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus / Meningoencefalite por Listeria monocytogenes em paciente com Lúpus Eritematoso Sistêmico

Abstract Introduction: Infectious complications are common in systemic lupus erythematosus. Although uncommon, central nervous system infections do occur and have significant lethality, with several etiological agents. Methods: We report on the case of a 29-year-old woman recently diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus with hematological, cutaneous, serous and renal manifestations (class IV lupus nephritis), who underwent corticosteroid pulse therapy and mycophenolate induction therapy. After 3 months of evolution, she developed headache and altered mental status. Computed tomography showed an area of hypoattenuation in the left frontal white matter and her cerebrospinal fluid examination showed pleocytosis and hyperproteinorrhachia. Peripheral blood and CSF culture identified Listeria monocytogenes. The patient presented deterioration of her neurological status, requiring invasive mechanical ventilation, monitoring of intracranial pressure and, despite all the intensive support, persisted in a comatose state and developed multiple organ failure, evolving to death due to nosocomial bloodstream infection. Discussion: Infection from L. monocytogenes usually occurs after eating contaminated food, manifesting itself with diarrhea and, occasionally, invasively, such as neurolisteriosis. Further investigation with CSF analysis and MRI is necessary, and the diagnosis consists of isolating the bacteria in sterile body fluid. Conclusion: The case presents a patient whose diagnosis of meningoencephalitis became an important differential with neuropsychiatric disorder. The poor outcome reinforces the need to remember this infectious condition as a serious complication in the natural history of SLE.

Resumo Introdução: As complicações infecciosas são frequentes no lúpus eritematoso sistêmico. Apesar de incomum, infecções do sistema nervoso central ocorrem e têm significativa letalidade, apresentando diversos agentes etiológicos. Métodos: Descrevemos aqui o caso de uma mulher de 29 anos recentemente diagnosticada com lúpus eritematoso sistêmico com manifestações hematológica, cutânea, serosa e renal (nefrite lúpica classe IV), submetida a pulsoterapia com corticoide e terapia de indução com micofenolato. Após 3 meses de evolução, apresentou quadro de cefaleia e alteração de estado mental. Tomografia computadorizada evidenciou área de hipoatenuação em substância branca frontal esquerda e exame de líquido cefalorraquidiano mostrava pleocitose e hiperproteinorraquia. Cultura de sangue periférico e do liquor identificaram Listeria monocytogenes. Paciente apresentou deterioração do quadro neurológico, necessitando de ventilação mecânica invasiva, monitorização de pressão intracraniana e, apesar de todo o suporte intensivo, persistiu em estado comatoso e disfunção de múltiplos órgãos, evoluindo a óbito por infecção de corrente sanguínea nosocomial. Discussão: Infecção por L. monocytogenes ocorre geralmente após ingestão de alimentos contaminados, manifestando-se por diarreia e, eventualmente, de forma invasiva como a neurolisteriose. Investigação complementar com análise de liquor e ressonância magnética faz-se necessária, sendo o diagnóstico confirmado por isolamento da bactéria em líquido corporal estéril. Conclusão: O caso representa uma paciente cujo diagnóstico de meningoencefalite tornou-se importante diferencial com atividade de doença neuropsiquiátrica. A evolução insatisfatória reforça a necessidade de se lembrar desta condição infecciosa como complicação grave na história natural do LES.

Particularidades de la meningoencefalitis eosinofílica en la era del caracol gigante africano / Particular features of eosinophilic meningoencephalitis in the age of the giant African snail

Introducción: la meningoencefalitis eosinofílica es una enfermedad inflamatoria infecciosa reportada en Cuba desde la década de los ochenta del siglo pasado y actualmente extendida al continente americano. Es producida por el parásito Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Objetivo: determinar si existen diferencias entre los pacientes que sufrieron meningoencefalitis eosinofílica antes y después de la introducción del caracol gigante africano. Métodos: se estudiaron un total de 19 muestras de líquido cefalorraquídeo y suero tomadas simultáneamente a cada paciente diagnosticados con meningoencefalitis eosinofílica, perteneciente a la seroraquioteca del Laboratorio Central del Líquido Cefalorraquídeo (LABCEL). Para la determinación de las proteínas albúmina e IgG se empleó como método de laboratorio la inmunodifusión radial. Resultados: el 14 por ciento de los pacientes fueron adultos antes de la aparición de este molusco, en contraste con el momento actual, donde el 50 por ciento son pacientes con edades superiores a 18 años. El porcentaje de síntesis de IgG intratecal media fue mayor en los enfermos actuales, aunque no de manera significativa. Conclusiones: . existen diferencias antes y después de la aparición del caracol gigante africano dado por la respuesta de síntesis intratecal en los pacientes asociados con el molusco que denota una mayor agresividad del parásito. La edad promedio mayor de los enfermos confirma que estos son los que más manipulan y dispersan el molusco(AU)

Introduction: eosinophilic meningoencephalitis is an infectious inflammatory disease reported in Cuba since the 1980s and currently extended to the American continent. This condition is caused by the parasite Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Objective: determine whether there are differences between the patients suffering from eosinophilic meningoencephalitis before and after the introduction of the giant African snail. Methods: a study was conducted of a total 19 cerebrospinal fluid and serum samples taken simultaneously from each of the patients diagnosed with eosinophilic meningoencephalitis and kept at the sample collection of the Central Cerebrospinal Fluid Laboratory (LABCEL). Radial immunodiffusion was the laboratory method used for determination of the proteins albumin and IgG. Results: of the patients studied, 14 percent were adults before the appearance of this mollusc, in contrast with the present moment, when 50 percent are patients aged over 18 years. The percentage of mean intrathecal synthesis of IgG was higher in the current sufferers, though not significantly. Conclusions: there are differences before and after the appearance of the giant African snail, given the intrathecal synthesis response of patients associated to the mollusc, which denotes greater aggressiveness by the parasite. The higher mean age of sufferers confirms that these are the ones who most often handle and disperse the mollusc(AU)

Absceso cerebral múltiple del lóbulo temporal derecho, reporte de un caso / Multiple brain abscess of the right temporary lobe, report of a case

RESUMEN El absceso cerebral es un proceso infeccioso focal del parénquima cerebral. Se inicia con un área localizada de cerebritis y progresa a una colección de pus rodeada por una cápsula bien vascularizada. La mortalidad oscila entre 5 a 15 % de los casos, excepto en la ruptura intraventricular del absceso cerebral, situación en que la mortalidad oscila entre 38 a 84 %, con tasas altas de discapacidad en los sobrevivientes. Se presentó un caso de 47 años, con sintomatología neurológica infecciosa, además de signos neurológicos que demuestran el trastorno funcional del lóbulo temporal no dominante. Se realizaron varios exámenes complementarios y se diagnosticó dos abscesos cerebrales temporales derechos. Fue intervenido neuroquirúrgicamente, su evolución fue satisfactoria con regresión de casi la totalidad de los síntomas prequirúrgicos presentados (AU).

ABSTRACT Brain abscess is a focal infectious process of the brain parenchyma. It begins with a located area of cerebritis and progresses to a pus collection surrounded by a well-vasculirized capsule. Mortality oscillates from 5 % to 15% of the cases, except in the intraventricular rupture of the brain abscess, situation in which mortality oscillates from 38 % to 84 %, with high rates of disability in survivors. The case presented is the case of a patient aged 47 years, with infectious neurologic symptoms besides neurologic signs showing the functional disorder of the non-dominant temporal lobe. Several complementary tests were carried out and two right temporal brain abscesses were diagnosed. The patient underwent a neurosurgery; his evolution was satisfactory with the almost total regression of the symptoms before surgery (AU).

Implementación del método de FilmArrayTM en pacientes pediátricos con infecciones severas / Implementation of the FilmArrayTM method in pediatric patients with severe infections / Implementação do método de matriz do FilmArrayTM em pacientes pediátricos com infecções graves

Se evaluó la implementación del método de PCR múltiple FilmArrayTM (Biofire Diagnostics, LLC, EE.UU.) en 21 niños con infección respiratoria aguda baja, 3 con meningoencefalitis, y un caso de sepsis. Se registraron el tiempo de demora hasta obtener el resultado y adecuar el tratamiento, los días de internación, los patógenos detectados y el costo de la incorporación de esta metodología. En los niños estudiados con FilmArrayTM el resultado estuvo disponible a los 90 minutos desde la toma de la muestra. Se detectaron patógenos no demostrados por los métodos disponibles, como Rhinovirus, además de diagnosticar coinfección viral; el tiempo promedio de estadía resultó 5 días. Se estimó reducir un 40% el costo global de internación. La implementación de FilmArrayTM resultó sencilla y se pudo incorporar a la sistemática de trabajo. Si bien esta experiencia incluyó un bajo número de pacientes, aportó información que demuestra el potencial de esta metodología para un mejor manejo del paciente crítico.

The implementation of multiple PCR FilmArrayTM (Biofire Diagnostics, LLC, USA) for 21 children with low acute respiratory infection, 3 with meningoencephalitis, and 1 case of sepsis was evaluated. Delay time until the result was obtained and the treatment adapted, hospitalization days, pathogens detected and the cost of incorporating this methodology were all recorded. In the children studied with FilmArrayTM the result was available 90 minutes after the sample was taken. Pathogens were not demonstrated by the available methods, such as Rhinovirus, apart from diagnosing viral coinfection, the average length of stay was 5 days. It was estimated to reduce the overall cost of hospitalization by 40%. The implementation of FilmArrayTM was simple and could be incorporated into the work system. Although this experience included a low number of patients, it provided information that demonstrates the potential of this methodology for better management of the critical patient.

Foi avaliada a implementação do método de PCR múltiplo FilmArrayTM (Biofire Diagnostics, LLC, EUA) em 21 crianças com infecção respiratória aguda baixa, 3 com meningoencefalite e um caso de sepse. O tempo de atraso foi registrado até a obtenção do resultado e a adaptação do tratamento, dias de internação, patógenos detectados e o custo da incorporação dessa metodologia. Nas crianças estudadas com o FilmArrayTM, o resultado ficou disponível 90 minutos após a coleta da amostra; foram detectados os patógenos não demonstrados pelos métodos disponíveis, como o Rinovírus, além de diagnosticar a coinfecção viral; o tempo médio de permanência foi de 5 dias. Foi estimado reduzir o custo total da hospitalização em 40%. A implementação do FilmArrayTM foi simples e pôde ser incorporada à sistemática de trabalho. Embora essa experiência tenha incluído um número de pacientes baixo, forneceu informações que demonstram o potencial dessa metodologia para um melhor gerenciamento do paciente crítico.

Evidencias clínico-epidemiológicas vinculadas a Lissachatina fulica en un adulto con meningoencefalitis eosinofílica causada por Angiostrongylus cantonensis / Clinical-epidemiological evidence related to Lissachatina fulica in an adult with eosinophilic meningoencephalitis caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis

Introducción: El helminto Angiostrongylus cantonensis es un parásito habitual en los pulmones de la rata y puede ocasionar meningoencefalitis eosinofílica en el hombre cuando se pone en contacto con las larvas por ingestión accidental. En Cuba es endémico y el riesgo de contraerlo aumenta con la entrada del caracol gigante africano en el país. Objetivo: Describir las acciones desarrolladas por las autoridades sanitarias locales para el control del caracol gigante africano entre 2016 y 2018 y la aparición de un paciente en 2018 con meningoencefalitis eosinofílica causada por Angiostrongylus cantonensis vinculado epidemiológicamente con la presencia de este caracol. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio cualitativo a partir de un grupo focal con el que se trabajó ante la aparición del caracol gigante africano en un área de salud del municipio San Miguel del Padrón. Se realiza una encuesta semi-estructurada. Resultados: Se trazaron las estrategias para la erradicación de la especie invasora a partir de un trabajo comunitario. Dos años después, se observa nuevamente el caracol gigante africano y un paciente con meningoencefalitis eosinofílica epidemiológicamente asociado a Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Conclusiones: Las acciones realizadas entre 2016 y 2018 resultaron ser insuficientes por el nuevo avistamiento del caracol en el área, con el agravante de encontrar un paciente con meningoencefalitis eosinofílica epidemiológicamente asociado con el molusco(AU)

Introduction: Helmint Angiostrongylus cantonensis is a natural parasite in the lungs of ratas. Ocassionally it can produced an eosinophilic meningoencephalitis in men by larvae accidental ingestion. Methods: A qualitative study was performed from a focal group by a semi-structural survey in a health area from San Miguel del Padrón municipality. Objectives: To describe the actions developed by the local sanitarian authorities for the control of African giant snails between 2016 and 2018 and the appearance of a patient suffering from eosinophilic meningoencephalitis due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis linked to the presence of this snail. Results: It has been established an eradication strategy for the elimination of this invasive species based on a community work. Two years later, it was observed again the giant African snail in the area with a patient suffering from Angiostrongylus cantonensis eosinophilic meningoencephalitis epidemiologically associated. Conclusions: The 2016 actions were not efficient due to the emerging vector and the further finding of a patient linked with the parasite(AU)

Effectiveness of Intravenous Isoniazid and Ethambutol Administration in Patients with Tuberculosis Meningoencephalitis and HIV Infection / 결핵

Meningoencefalitis por herpes simple: una visión de la infección viral que causa el mayor compromiso cerebral / Herpes simplex virus encephalitis: an overview of the viral infection causing the greatest brain compromise

La inflamación del sistema nervioso central secundaria a la infección por la familia herpesviridae puede generar un compromiso difuso del parénquima encefálico, la cual puede ser fatal en ausencia de un rápido diagnóstico y tratamiento. Objetivo: revisar las diferentes características biológicas, fisiopatológicas, clínicas, terapéuticas y pronóstico del meningoencefalitis causada por VHS-1 y 2. Materiales y métodos: revisión de la literatura científica (revisión crítica), llevada a cabo mediante las bases de datos Medline y buscadores específicos IMBIOMED, PUBMEDE, SCIENCEDIRECT, SCIELO, con un total de 150 artículos, se priorizaron 67 los cuales fueron leídos a profundidad. Resultados y discusión: debido el neurotropismo del herpes virus simple puede causar neuroinvasividad, neurotoxicidad y latencia en el SNC. Por sus características semiológicas inespecíficas se requiere un estudio exhaustivo para lograr el diagnóstico acertado. Los métodos actuales tales como neuroimágenes y PCR han aportado al esclarecimiento del diagnóstico etiológico de esta patología. La detección temprana de la entidad y la instauración precoz del tratamiento, se asocian con un aumento en la tasa de supervivencia y a una disminución de las secuelas neurológicas. Conclusión: conocer la biología del virus, su comportamiento, las características clínicas y el tratamiento de la entidad es una estrategia eficaz para disminuir secuelas y desenlaces fatales.

Central nervous system (CNS) inflammation secondary to an infection by the Herpesviridae family may generate a diffuse compromise of the encephalic parenchyma which may be fatal in the absence of a rapid diagnosis and prompt institution of treatment. Objective: to review the biological, physiopathology, clinical and therapeutic characteristics and prognosis of encephalitis caused by HSV-1 and HSV-2 viruses. Materials and Methods: a scientific literature review (critical review), in the Medline scientific database and IMBIOMED, PUBMEDE, SCIENCEDIRECT, SCIELO search engines, obtaining 150 results limited to 67 articles read in detail. Results and Discussion: herpes simplex virus is neurotropic and may cause invasion, toxicity and latent infection of the CNS. Due to its unspecific symptoms a thorough diagnostic workup is required to achieve a correct diagnosis. Current methods such as neuroimaging studies and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) examination have contributed to elucidate the etiologic virus. A rapid detection and prompt treatment is associated with an increase in the survival rate and decrease in neurologic sequelae. Conclusion: understanding the biology, behavior, clinical manifestations and treatment of this viral infection is an efficient strategy to prevent sequelae and reduce fatal outcomes.

Malignant hyperthermia in a child after magnetic resonance imaging: a case report / Hipertermia maligna em criança após exame de ressonância magnética: relato de caso

ABSTRACT Objective: To report on a case of malignant hyperthermia in a child after a magnetic resonance imaging of the skull was performed using sevoflurane anesthesia. Case description: A 3-year-old boy admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit after presenting clinical and laboratory findings consistent with unspecified viral meningoencephalitis. While the patient was sedated, a magnetic resonance imaging of the skul was performed using propofol followed by the administration of sevoflurane through a laryngeal mask in order to continue anesthesia. Approximately three hours after the start of the procedure, the patient presented persistent tachycardia, tachypnea, generalized muscular stiffness and hyperthermia. With a diagnostic hypothesis of malignant hyperthermia, dantrolene was then administered, which immediately induced muscle stiffness, tachycardia, tachypnea and reduced body temperature. Comments: Malignant hyperthermia is a rare pharmacogenetic syndrome characterized by a severe hypermetabolic reaction after the administration of halogenated inhalational anesthetics or depolarizing muscle relaxants such as succinylcholine, or both. Although it is a potentially fatal disease, the rapid administration of continued doses dantrolene has drastically reduced the morbidity and mortality of the disease.

RESUMO Objetivo: Relatar um caso de hipertermia maligna em criança após exame de ressonância magnética de crânio realizada sob efeito anestésico de sevoflurano. Descrição do caso: Menino de três anos de idade, admitido na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Pediátrica (UTIP) após apresentar quadros clínico e laboratorial compatíveis com meningoencefalite viral não especificada. Foi realizado um exame de ressonância magnética de crânio com sedação utilizando, na indução anestésica, o propofol seguido pela administração de sevoflurano por meio de máscara laríngea para manutenção anestésica. Aproximadamente três horas após o início do procedimento, o paciente apresentou taquicardia, taquipneia, rigidez muscular generalizada e hipertermia persistentes. Com hipótese diagnóstica de hipertermia maligna, foi então administrado dantrolene, que fez ceder de forma imediata a rigidez muscular, a taquicardia, a taquipneia e reduziu a temperatura corporal. Comentários: A hipertermia maligna é uma síndrome farmacogenética rara, que se caracteriza por reação hipermetabólica grave após administração de anestésicos inalatórios halogenados e/ou relaxantes musculares despolarizantes, como a succinilcolina. Apesar de ser uma doença potencialmente fatal, a rápida administração de dantrolene, junto às doses de manutenção, tem reduzido drasticamente a morbimortalidade da doença.

Early and late neuropathological features of meningoencephalitis associated with Maraba virus infection

Maraba virus is a member of the genus Vesiculovirus of the Rhabdoviridae family that was isolated in 1983 from sandflies captured in the municipality of Maraba, state of Pará, Amazônia, Brazil. Despite 30 years having passed since its isolation, little is known about the neuropathology induced by the Maraba virus. Accordingly, in this study the histopathological features, inflammatory glial changes, cytokine concentrations, and nitric oxide activity in the encephalon of adult mice subjected to Maraba virus nostril infection were evaluated. The results showed that 6 days after intranasal inoculation, severe neuropathological-associated disease signs appeared, including edema, necrosis and pyknosis of neurons, generalized congestion of encephalic vessels, and intra- and perivascular meningeal lymphocytic infiltrates in several brain regions. Immunolabeling of viral antigens was observed in almost all central nervous system (CNS) areas and this was associated with intense microglial activation and astrogliosis. Compared to control animals, infected mice showed significant increases in interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interferon (INF)-γ, MCP-1, nitric oxide, and encephalic cytokine levels. We suggest that an exacerbated inflammatory response in several regions of the CNS of adult BALB/c mice might be responsible for their deaths.

Diagnóstico neuroinmunológico de meningoencefalitis eosinofílica producida por Angiostrongylus cantonensis / Neuroimmunological diagnosis of eosinophilic meningoencephalitis caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis

El diagnóstico de la meningoencefalitis por Angiostrongylus cantonensis se establece por la presencia de las larvas del helminto en el líquido cefalorraquídeo, pero esta evidencia es muy difícil de encontrar ya que las larvas son lábiles en este medio y no se hallan con frecuencia. Debido a que en Cuba, la presencia del parásito se remonta a 1981 y este parásito es el único que puede provocar esta enfermedad en el país, se realiza una revisión con el objetivo de revisar la literatura publicada sobre el tema para acopiar toda la evidencia que ayude al diagnóstico auxiliar de meningoencefalitis eosinofílica. Se propone que el estudio de la síntesis intratecal de IgE y C3c, unido al patrón de síntesis local de IgA+IgG principalmente y de IgG1+ IgG2 resultan las más indicadas. Existen otras proteínas que pudieran auxiliar como la síntesis intratecal de C4 y en menor proporción MBL(AU)

Diagnosis of meningoencephalitis due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis is based on the presence of helminth larvae in cerebrospinal fluid, but such evidence is very hard to find, since the larvae are labile in this medium and cannot be spotted easily. Based on the fact that presence of the parasite in Cuba dates back to 1981, and this is the only agent of the disease in the country, a review was conducted with the purpose of going over the published literature about the topic and gather evidence leading to the auxiliary diagnosis of eosinophilic meningoencephalitis. The study of the intrathecal synthesis of IgE and C3c, alongside the local synthesis pattern for IgA+IgG mainly and IgG1+IgG2, are proposed as the most appropriate. Other useful proteins are the intrathecal synthesis of C4 and to a lesser extent MBL(AU)

Meningoencefalitis por Cryptococcus gattii en un paciente pediátrico con cirrosis: Reporte de caso / Cryptococcus gattii meningoencephalitis in a pediatric patient with cirrhosis: Case report

Resumen Introducción: En Colombia, la criptococosis es una infección fúngica invasiva poco frecuente. Objetivo: Reportar el caso clínico de un niño con meningoencefalitis por Cryptococcus gattii que tenía como factor de riesgo una disfunción inmune asociada a cirrosis, un factor de riesgo descrito en adultos pero no reportado en niños. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó una revisión no sistemática de la literatura y un resumen de los aspectos más relevantes de la historia clínica. Resultados: Se presenta el caso de un paciente masculino de 16 años con antecedente de cirrosis quien consultó por un cuadro clínico de 8 días de evolución de fiebre, emesis persistente, cefalea frontal, fotofobia y tinitus. Al examen físico no presentaba alteraciones neurológicas. En el estudio del líquido cefalorraquídeo las pruebas moleculares directas fueron positivas para Cryptococcus neoformans/gattii y el cultivo reportó crecimiento de Cryptococcus gattii. Conclusión: En este caso se destaca la importancia de sospechar infecciones oportunistas en pacientes que tienen inmunodeficiencia no solo secundaria a las infecciones por VIH, sino también a la producida por otros factores que alteran la respuesta inmunológica como la cirrosis.

Abstract Introduction: In Colombia, cryptococcosis is a rare invasive fungal infection. Objective: To report the clinical case of a child with Cryptococcus gattii meningoencephalitis whose risk factor was immune dysfunction associated with cirrhosis, a risk factor described in adults which in the reviewed literature has not been reported in children. Materials and methods: A non-systematic review of the literature and a summary of the most relevant aspects of the clinical history were performed. Results: We present the case of a 16-year-old male patient with a history of cirrhosis who came for consultation with a clinical presentation of 8 days of fever, persistent emesis, frontal headache, photophobia and tinnitus. The physical examination did not present neurological alterations. In the study of cerebrospinal fluid, he presented positive direct molecular tests for Cryptococcus neoformans/gattii and the culture reported growth of Cryptococcus gattii. Conclusion: In this case, the importance of suspecting opportunistic infections in patients who have immunodeficiencies not only secondary to HIV infections, but also to those caused by other factors that alter the immune response such as cirrhosis is highlighted.

Confirmation of the presence of Angiostrongylus cantonensis in lung tissue of the African giant snail (Lissachatina fulica) in Colombia / Confirmación de la presencia de Angiostrongylus cantonensis en tejido pulmonar de caracol gigante Africano (Lissachatina fulica) en Colombia

Objetive: To confirm the presence of Angiostrongylus cantonensis in Lissachatina fulica individuals in Colombia. Methods: 19 individuals of L. fulica were collected in the city of Buenaventura, Valle del Cauca, Colombia. Lung tissue was extracted and two analysis methods were used: visual identification by histological observation, and identification through conventional and real-time PCR. The A. cantonensis detection rate was established taking into account each of the analysis techniques used. Results: Presence of A. cantonensis was confirmed in the lung tissue of L. fulica specimens collected in the city of Buenaventura, Valle del Cauca, Colombia. The detection rate based on visual identification through histological analysis was 89%, whereas it was 95% using conventional PCR, and 100% using real-time PCR. Conclusion: This study confirmed for the first time the presence of A. cantonensis associated with L. fulica specimens in Colombia. Therefore, eosinophilic meningitis could be considered an emerging disease in Colombia.

Objetivo: confirmar la presencia de Angiostrongylus cantonensis en individuos de Lissachatina fulica en Colombia. Materiales y métodos: se recolectaron 19 individuos de L. fulica en la ciudad de Buenaventura, Valle del Cauca, Colombia. Se extrajo el tejido pumonar y se utilizaron dos métodos de análisis: identificación visual por observación histológica e identificación a través de PCR convencional y en tiempo real. La tasa de detección de A. cantonensis fue establecida para cada una de las técnicas de análisis utilizadas. Resultados: se confirmó la presencia de A. cantonensis en el tejido pulmonar de los especímenes de L. fulica recolectados en la ciudad de Buenaventura, Valle del Cauca, Colombia. La tasa de detección alcanzanda a través de la técnica de identificación visual mediante análisis histológico fue del 89%, mientras que usando la técnica de PCR convencional fue del 95% y de PCR en tiempo real fue del 100%. Conclusión: este estudio confirma por primera vez la presencia de A. cantonensis asociado a especímenes de L. fulica en Colombia. Por lo tanto, se sugiere que la meningitis eosinofílica sea propuesta como una enfermedad emergente en Colombia.