Listeria brain abscess in a patient with autoimmune hepatitis.

is an uncommon cause of brain abscesses. Immunocompromised hosts, pregnant women and patients at extremes of age are especially susceptible. We discuss the successful management of a woman with autoimmune hepatitis on prednisone and azathioprine therapy with a brain abscess. Previously thought to be a rare cause of central nervous system (CNS) infection, the incidence of CNS listeriosis has increased due to a rise in organ and bone marrow transplantation requiring immunosuppressive medications. brain abscesses are now more frequently described and are associated with high rates of concomitant bacteremia suggesting a hematogenous route of infection.