[Mycoplasma pneumoniae encephalitis successfully treated by levofloxacin]

Abstract

Introduction: Mycoplasma pneumonia (MP) infection may be associated with several neurological complications. Encephalitis, which affects children and rarely young adults, is the most frequent.

Case report: A 23-year-old man was admitted for pneumonia with encephalitis. Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection was documented by serology, and polymerase chain reaction in the cerebrospinal fluid. Despite serious initial presentation, outcome was favourable with levofloxacin treatment.

Conclusion: MP infection should be considered as a potential aetiology in acute encephalitis in young people and in individuals with respiratory symptoms. Antibiotic therapy (fluoroquinolones or macrolides) should be used if MP is strongly suspected or in case of severe acute meningo-encephalitis.

Keywords: Fluoroquinolones; Levofloxacin; Lévofloxacine; Meningo-encephalitis; Mycoplasma pneumoniae; Méningo-encéphalite.