A Case of Meningitis Caused by Mycobacterium abscessus in a Paediatric Patient

Abstract

Mycobacterium abscessus, a rapidly growing and potentially pathogenic Mycobacterium, is an environmental contaminant and is commonly found in tap water supplies. We report a case of M. abscessus meningitis following VP shunt insertion. A 9-year-old male patient with previous history of aqueductal stenosis and hydrocephalus with VP shunt in situ, presented with pain abdomen of 10 days duration. Investigations revealed multiple mesenteric lymph nodes with impacted VP shunt tip within the omentum. Ascitic fluid and CSF tap showed Acid-Fast Bacilli, later confirmed to be M. abscessus. The patient was treated with Clarithromycin and Amikacin, leading to resolution of the infection. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of M. abscessus meningitis in an immunocompetent individual. We discuss the possible sources of infection and therapeutic challenges. It is of utmost importance to consider, with high index of suspicion, nontubercular Mycobacteria as the causative organism in patients, who do not respond to regular anti-tubercular regimen.