Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus: A Very Rare Cause of Meningitis

Abstract

Community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) is mostly implicated in soft tissue and skin infections. Cases with meningitis caused by CA-MRSA are rare. High index of suspicion should be kept for physicians as bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency and if untreated, has a high mortality rate. Urgent steps need to be taken to determine the cause and implement therapy. Here, we reported a case of a 58-year-old female with MRSA bacteremia and meningitis as confirmed by positive blood cultures and cerebrospinal fluid analysis; successfully managed with vancomycin and rifampin.

How we deal with Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA, MRSA) central nervous system infections

“…Despite this, common abnormalities on physical examination are present in most cases: fever with chills, tachycardia, hypotension and general malaise are commonly found [29]. However, these signs may also be absent and the patient can be hemodynamically stable [30]. The mental status may be altered and the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score may be low [14].…”

“…Cerebrovascular complications of meningitis (e.g., intracranial haemorrhage, cerebral infarction, cavernous sinus thrombosis) are rarely described [35,36]. Spinal epidural phlegmon and in general spinal cord involvement have occasionally been reported and are associated with poor outcomes [30,37]. Pneumocephalus, defined as the presence of gas in the cranial cavity, is another extremely rare complication of SA meningitis [38].…”