Batna Journal of Medical Sciences
Volume 13, Numéro 1, Pages 53-56
2026-05-01
Authors : Righi Nora . Katouche Samia . Doumandji Melissa . Slimani Samy . Lina Bruno .
Meningoencephalitis is a major cause of pediatric hospitalization, with etiologies ranging from common to rare pathogens. Between April 2012 and August 2015, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), serum, and respiratory samples from suspected cases were collected at Batna University Hospital in Algeria and analyzed at the Institute of Infectious Agents in Lyon, France. Among these, we report an unusual case of meningoencephalitis in a 7-month-old infant who presented with fever, seizures, altered consciousness, and systemic manifestations. Laboratory investigations revealed a co-infection with penicillin-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae and Enterovirus, both identified in the CSF by culture and PCR. Brain imaging showed cortical atrophy and ischemic lesions, while EEG confirmed epileptiform activity. The child was treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics, corticosteroids, and initially acyclovir, which was discontinued after confirmation of Enterovirus infection. Clinical improvement was achieved, although post-infectious epilepsy developed. This case highlights the potential for synergistic mechanisms between bacterial and viral pathogens in central nervous system infections. It underlines the need for clinicians to consider mixed etiologies in severe pediatric presentations and emphasizes the importance of comprehensive molecular diagnostic tools to improve management and outcomes.
Meningoencephalitis ; Streptococcus pneumoniae ; Enterovirus ; Co-infection ; Infant ; PCR ; CSF
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