Multiple Listeria Abscesses in an Immunocompetent Patient

Abstract

Listeria monocytogenes is a ubiquitous organism that can potentially cause gastroenteritis and, less commonly, central nervous system infections. Brain abscess is rare and often associated with immunocompromised status. We report a case of multiple abscesses caused by Listeria in a previously immunocompetent elderly patient who developed a headache and left-sided hemiparesis over the course of days. Neuroimaging studies revealed multiple ring-enhancing lesions in the brain and midbrain territories. Blood culture, brain tissue aspirate, and cerebrospinal fluid nucleic acid amplification test were positive for Listeria. Extensive immunologic workup revealed no primary or secondary immunodeficiency disorders. After the initiation of antibiotics, the patient showed gradual clinical improvement and went to a skilled nursing facility after two weeks.