From the Research
Definition and Overview of Neurobrucellosis
- Neurobrucellosis (NB) is a rare and serious complication of brucellosis, a zoonotic disease caused by Brucella bacteria 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- It is characterized by the invasion of the nervous system by Brucella bacteria, leading to a range of clinical manifestations, including meningitis, meningoencephalitis, and other neurological symptoms 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
Clinical Manifestations of Neurobrucellosis
- The clinical manifestations of NB vary greatly and can be chronic, making diagnosis challenging 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Common symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, decreased consciousness, seizures, and meningeal signs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Neurological symptoms can also include limb weakness, hearing loss, sensory abnormalities, and limb paralysis 1, 2.
Diagnosis of Neurobrucellosis
- Diagnosis of NB is based on a combination of clinical characteristics, laboratory tests, and imaging examinations 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Laboratory tests include serum agglutination tests, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, and blood and CSF cultures for Brucella bacteria 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Imaging examinations, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), can also be used to support diagnosis 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
Treatment and Prognosis of Neurobrucellosis
- Treatment of NB typically involves a combination of antibiotics, such as doxycycline, rifampicin, and ceftriaxone, for an extended period 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- The prognosis of NB is generally good, with most patients responding well to treatment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- However, delayed diagnosis and treatment can lead to complications and poor outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.