# Listeria monocytogenes Bacteremia in an Individual With AIDS: A Case Report

## TL;DR

A man with AIDS developed a severe Listeria infection, which was treated with antibiotics.

## Contribution

This case report highlights Listeria monocytogenes bacteremia in an AIDS patient with non-specific initial symptoms.

## Key findings

- The patient presented with vague symptoms but was diagnosed with L. monocytogenes bacteremia.
- Treatment with IV ampicillin and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole led to recovery.
- Immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk for severe Listeria infections.

## Abstract

Listeria monocytogenes is a gram-positive bacterium commonly found in soil, water, and rotting vegetation. The most common presentation of a Listeria infection is gastroenteritis. Invasive infection and severe complications are more common in immunocompromised hosts. Early identification and treatment of listeriosisis essential to reduce morbidity and mortality. This is a case report of a 50-year-old man with poorly controlled human immunodeficiency virus who presented with vague symptoms of chills and malaise. The patient was admitted for suspected pneumonia, later found to have L. monocytogenes bacteremia. We described his evaluation, treatment, and clinical course. The patient was treated with IV ampicillin and discharged with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.