"An unusual case of Escherichia coli meningitis and bacteremia in an elderly woman" by Andrea M. Lauffer, Mahmoud Shorman et al.
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Author Credentials

Andrea M. Lauffer, MD, Mahmoud Shorman, MD, Carl McComas, MD

Keywords

bacteremia, meningitis, geriatric, E. Coli, clinical, cerebrospinal, cultures, delirium

Disciplines

Bacteria | Geriatrics | Infectious Disease | Internal Medicine | Nervous System Diseases | Neurology | Pathological Conditions, Signs and Symptoms

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction:

We report an unusual case of E. coli meningitis in an elderly woman who presented to the emergency room with a chief complaint of intractable low back pain.

Case Description:

A 67 year old woman presented to the emergency room for a chief complaint of intractable low back pain. After admission, the patient developed delirium. Blood cultures were drawn. Patient underwent a lumbar puncture which revealed purulent cerebrospinal fluid. Results of the cerebrospinal fluid and blood cultures revealed pan-sensitive E. coli.

Conclusion:

In the geriatric population, delayed presentation of meningitis can occur for various reasons. With the older adult population, existing co-morbidities and decline in immunologic function can mask symptoms. Clinicians caring for the elderly population need to have a high index of suspicion in the setting of subtle symptoms when it comes to diagnosing acute bacterial meningitis.

Key Words: bacteremia, meningitis, geriatric, E. Coli, clinical, cerebrospinal, cultures, delirium

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