Sepsis and meningitis caused by Chryseobacterium meningosepticum; Case series of two neonates

Abstract

Background

Chryseobacterium meningosepticum is an aerobic, gram negative bacterium found in the fresh water, salt water and soil in environment. This microorganism can become a potential reservoir of infection in newborns, elderly cases and immunocompromised. It has also been isolated from medical equipment in neonatal units.

Cases

We present two newborns with Chryseobacterium meningosepticum sepsis and meningitis.

Case 1; Baby boy presented at 13^th day of life with complaints of excessive cry, reluctant to feed and fever for last 4 days. He was admitted in as a suspected case of late onset sepsis. Baby developed tonic posturing with neck retraction. His CSF culture revealed chryseobacterium and was immediately put on culture sensitive antibiotics cover. Gradually the baby started improving. He was discharged on 22^nd day of admission with follow-up in child OPD.

Case 2; A 3 day old baby girl was admitted with fever, lethargy and reluctance to feed for last 2 days. She was born preterm at 32^nd week of gestation. During admission she developed respiratory distress and fitz. Her CT scan brain and lumber puncture for cerebrospinal fluid examination and culture sensitivity were performed. CSF culture revealed Chrysobacterium meningosepticum. CT scan brain showed subdural haemorrhage. Patient’s condition kept on deteriorating despite all efforts. She was put on ventilator. Finally she died on 4^th day of admission.

Conclusion

Chryseobacterium meningosepticum (Elizabethkingia meningoseptica) is a rare cause of neonatal sepsis and meningitis, especially in premature newborns. Requisite knowledge of its presentation and antibiotic sensitivity can prevent mortality and associated morbidity.