Neurobrucellosis in children

Abstract

Neurobrucellosis is a complication of brucellosis, which is considered endemic in the Indian subcontinent, Arabian Peninsula and Mediterranean countries. Brucella reaches the central nervous system via hematogenous spread in the infected human being, or through phagocytosis. Neurobrucellosis can present with any neurological symptoms, hence, the index of suspicion must be high enough to make proper diagnosis. Cerebrospinal fluid studies are usually diagnostic, while imagings including magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography are of little assistance. As for therapy, a combination of antibiotics must be administered with a goal to reduce relapse or avoid failure. The duration of treatment should be tailored as per clinical signs and symptoms until the cerebrospinal fluid components return to normal, which might be up to six months. In this article, we present an overall view of current understanding of neurobrucellosis in children, its epidemiology, clinical features, diagnostic tests, and management options.