Recurrent Gemella haemolysans meningitis in a patient with osteomyelitis of the clivus

Abstract

Systemic infection caused by G. haemolysans has rarely been reported. We herein describe the case of a 69-year-old woman with recurrent G. haemolysans meningitis that led to abducens nerve palsy. Osteomyelitis of the clivus was likely present at the first admission, which led to reinfection of the meninges because the course of antibiotic treatment was too short. The patient has remained free of relapse for one year after undergoing a second round of treatment that lasted 63 days. In cases of G. haemolysans meningitis, coexisting infectious diseases, such as endocarditis and/or osteomyelitis, should therefore be investigated to prevent recurrence. © 2013 The Japanese Society of Internal Medicine.