[Chronic eosinophilic meningoencephalitis due to Candida guillermondii].

INTRODUCTION

Eosinophilic meningoencephalitis is characterized by a meningeal syndrome and an eosinophilic reaction of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). When these symptoms persist for more than four weeks, it is said to be chronic. Both eosinophilic meningoencephalitis and chronic meningoencephalitis are of multiple aetiologies, including fungi.

CLINICAL CASE

We report a case in which chronic meningoencephalitis occurred, with persistence of leukocytes, mainly eosinophils, in the CSF. The patient complained of intense, generalized headache and a temperature of 37 degrees C. On physical examination, the only unusual finding was slight neck stiffness. During the clinical course there were focal motor signs and evidence of intracranial hypertension. On CSF culture Candida guillermondii was grown. Treatment with amphotericin B was given, and the neurological disorder remitted completely.

CONCLUSION

Candida guillermondii may be the etiological agent in chronic eosinophilic meningoencephalitis.