Specific Meningoencephalitis in Kidney Transplant Patients A Rare and Serious Complication

Introduction: Immunosuppressive therapy, a necessity for kidney transplant recipients, can lead to serious complications, including infections. One such rare but critical infection is specific meningoencephalitis, commonly diagnosed in immunocompromised individuals.

Understanding Specific Meningoencephalitis Post-Kidney Transplantation Meningoencephalitis, particularly of tuberculous origin, is a severe neurological condition affecting kidney transplant recipients due to their compromised immune status.

Case Report Overview

  • Patient Background: A 30-year-old male kidney transplant recipient (donor: his father) previously underwent two years of chronic hemodialysis due to end-stage renal disease caused by type 1 diabetes.
  • Clinical Presentation: Two months post-transplant, he developed fever, signs of septicemia, neurological deficits, and meningeal irritation.
  • Diagnosis: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis revealed lymphocytosis, elevated proteins, and positive Mycobacterium tuberculosis antibodies. A contrast-enhanced CT scan confirmed findings consistent with tuberculous meningoencephalitis.
  • Treatment and Outcome: A quadruple anti-tuberculosis regimen was initiated, leading to gradual clinical improvement. However, residual neurological deficits, including motor aphasia and right-sided hemiparesis, persisted.

Broader Implications and Medical Considerations

Post-transplant infections, particularly central nervous system (CNS) infections, remain a leading cause of mortality in kidney transplant recipients. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) emphasizes the importance of early detection and prophylactic treatment of tuberculosis in transplant patients to reduce severe complications.

Strategic Link Placement

Call-to-Action