Ventriculitis Associated with Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae after Acupuncture

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Ventriculitis is a rare and critical infection of the central nervous system. Here, we report a case of ventriculitis by extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing Klebsiella pneumoniae , after acupuncture at the low back. CASE REPORT A 72-year-old woman visited our center with fever, headache, and decreased mental status, after undergoing low back acupuncture. Brain imaging showed the fluid-debris level in the lateral ventricle, suggesting ventriculitis. ESBL producing Klebsiella pneumoniae were cultured from the cerebrospinal fluid. After the administration of antibiotics, although the ventriculitis was treated, the quadriplegia remained. CONCLUSIONS: This case stresses the importance of aseptic techniques during acupuncture.