Kuo TH, Lee KS, Lieu AS, Lin CL, Liu GC, Howng SL, Hwang SL. Massive intracerebral air embolism associated with meningitis and lumbar spondylitis: case report.
SURGICAL NEUROLOGY 2004;
62:362-5; discussion 365. [PMID:
15451293 DOI:
10.1016/j.surneu.2003.11.035]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2003] [Accepted: 11/26/2003] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Massive intracerebral air embolism is a rare pathologic state and never in association with meningitis and lumbar spondylitis. To the best of our knowledge, our presented case is the first of a massive intracerebral air embolism associated with meningitis and lumbar spondylitis of Klebsiella pneumonia.
CASE DESCRIPTION
A 55-year-old man presented with a high fever and low back pain. Blood culture showed Klebsiella pneumonia. Lumbar computed tomography (CT) revealed discitis at L1-2 and L2-3 levels and paraspinal abscess in which air was found. Despite management with antibiotics, patient's consciousness deteriorated, and brain CT revealed diffuse intravenous air embolism and severe brain swelling. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) examination demonstrated bacterial meningitis, and the CSF culture showed Klebsiella pneumonia. Later, septic shock occurred and patient expired.
CONCLUSION
Intracerebral air embolism can occur in the Klebsiella pneumonia meningitis that resulted from lumbar spondylitis and sepsis.
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