Eosinophilic meningitis is characterised by severe headache and neurophysiological disorders, coupled with typical CSF findings.
The disease is contracted by the accidental ingestion of larvae of Angiostrongylus cantonensis, or rat lungworm, which infect several species of snails, etc. The commonest sources are uncooked crabs or prawns, both fresh and salt water. No locally acquired infection has been recorded.
The incubation period ranges from 20 - 40 days.
Recovery is usually spontaneous and uneventful. However, invasion of the eye by larvae usually requires surgical intervention. Antihelminthics have been tried in this situation with equivocal results.
Findings
- Raised WBC's with many eosinophils present
- Raised protein concentration
- Normal glucose concentration
- Eosinophilia in a peripheral blood specimen
For advice on treatment, consult the Microbiologist or Infectious Diseases Service.
Dr Sally Roberts
, Microbiologist:
ext 22705
Cellphone
021 674 140
Dr Sharmini Muttaiyah
, Microbiologist:
ext 22700
Cellphone
021 615 892
Dr Mary de Almeida
, Microbiologist:
ext 22700
Cellphone
021 170 9117
Dr Matthew Blakiston
, Microbiologist: contact via Lablink