Neuroinvasion by Mycoplasma pneumoniae in Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis
Author Information
Author(s): Bernhard Stamm, Michael Moschopulos, Hansjoerg Hungerbuehler, Jeannette Guarner, Gillian L. Genrich, Sherif R. Zaki
Primary Institution: Kantonsspital Aarau
Hypothesis
Is neuroinvasion by Mycoplasma pneumoniae a contributing factor to central neurologic complications in infections?
Conclusion
The study found evidence of neuroinvasion by Mycoplasma pneumoniae in a patient with acute disseminated encephalomyelitis.
Supporting Evidence
- M. pneumoniae antigens were found in brain tissue, indicating neuroinvasion.
- The patient developed severe neurological symptoms following a lung infection.
- Autopsy revealed multiple hemorrhagic foci and necrosis in the brain.
Takeaway
A man got very sick from a lung infection, which later caused serious brain problems because the germs got into his brain.
Methodology
The study involved autopsy findings and various laboratory tests including ELISA, PCR, and immunohistochemical analysis.
Limitations
The study is based on a single case, limiting the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
A 45-year-old previously healthy man.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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