Aspergillus meningitis and discitis from low-back procedures in an immunocompetent patient

A. B.Larson Kolbe, A. M. McKinney, A. Tuba Karagulle Kendi, D. Misselt

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

24 Scopus citations

Abstract

We present a case of an immunocompetent patient who developed Aspergillus meningitis, subsequent to discitis, presumed to be from an epidural steroid injection. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lumbar spine confirmed the diagnosis of discitis. Fluoroscopic-guided aspiration of the disc showed growth of Aspergillus fumigatus. MRI of the brain revealed involvement of the right third cranial nerve. Repeat MRIs demonstrated multiple leptomeningeal masses consistent with granulomatous meningitis. Meningitis is a rare complication of discitis, discogram, or epidural steroid injection. Aspergillus usually only infects immunocompromised patients, but rarely can affect immunocompetent patients.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)687-689
Number of pages3
JournalActa Radiologica
Volume48
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - 2007

Keywords

  • Aspergillus
  • Discitis
  • Meningitis

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Radiological and Ultrasound Technology
  • Radiology Nuclear Medicine and imaging

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Aspergillus meningitis and discitis from low-back procedures in an immunocompetent patient'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this