Primary amoebic meningo encephalitis- a case study

ABSTRACT

Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis [PAM] mimicks acute bacterial meningitis in presentation. However because it is very rare as compared to pyogenic meningitis, physicians may miss the diagnosis initially. Recent exposure to diving, swimming or splashing in warm fresh water should suggest the possibility of amoebic meningoencephalitis, and prompt examination of the cerebrospinal fluid [CSF] for N. Fowleri. Timely diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion in any individual presenting with acute onset of meningitis-like symptoms. We present a fatal case of PAM masquerading as an acute upper respiratory infection but a quick transition to pyogenic meningitis, and encephalitis