Neuromelioidosis in a child from Southern India: Diagnostic and therapeutic insights

Abstract

Melioidosis, caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, presents with diverse clinical manifestations. This is a case of a 1-year-old female presenting with fever, and altered sensorium. Her MRI had revealed features suggestive of brainstem encephalitis. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis confirmed the presence of Burkholderia pseudomallei. Treatment involved a two-phase antibiotic therapy: the acute phase and the eradication phase, and after 14 days of appropriate antibiotics, the patient stabilized and was discharged with follow-up care. This case underscores the importance of recognizing the rare neurological presentation of neuromelioidosis in pediatric patients, emphasizing the need for timely diagnosis and treatment to improve outcomes.