Abstract:

Objective

To deepen public understanding of Balamuthia amebic encephalitis(BAE) and improve early diagnosis, treatment, and care of this disease in clinical practice.

Methods

The diagnosis, treatment and care process of a patient with BAE were analyzed, including clinical data, physical examination, laboratory examination, imaging examination, diagnosis, treatment, care process and clinical regression.

Results

The 9-year-old female patient was admitted to another hospital with cough, fever and confusion, and was transferred to our hospital after ineffective symptomatic treatment. Admission physical examination and imaging findings were uncharacteristic. Two cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) metagenomic nextgeneration sequencing (mNGS) tests were performed. Both tests suggested Balamuthia mandrillaris amoeba infection, which was consistent with the results of routine, biochemical and cytological examination of the CSF. The patient died seven days after admission due to rapid progression of the disease despite symptomatic treatment and specialized care.

Conclusion

The clinical presentation of BAE lacks specificity, and CSF examination helps to diagnose the disease. Since there is no specific treatment for this disease, an exclusive treatment and care plan needs to be tailed to the individual patient.

Key words: Balamuthia mandrillaris amoeba, amoebic encephalitis, experimental diagnosis, cerebrospinal fluid examination, treatment and care