# A Rare Intruder: Neonatal Meningoencephalitis by Edwardsiella tarda Requiring Systemic and Intrathecal Antibiotics and Repeated Neurosurgery

## TL;DR

A rare case of neonatal meningoencephalitis caused by Edwardsiella tarda is reported, highlighting the need for aggressive treatment and neurosurgery to improve outcomes.

## Contribution

This paper presents a rare neonatal case of Edwardsiella tarda meningoencephalitis and a literature review emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and multidisciplinary care.

## Key findings

- Neonatal E. tarda infections often involve the central nervous system and have high mortality.
- Survivors frequently experience long-term neurological issues.
- Aggressive antibiotic and neurosurgical interventions are critical for improved outcomes.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: Edwardsiella tarda is a rare Gram-negative pathogen that uncommonly infects humans. Neonatal infections are extremely rare but often severe, with a high incidence of central nervous system (CNS) complications. Case presentation: We report a term neonate born via spontaneous vaginal delivery who developed systemic signs of infection within 18 h of life. Blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cultures grew Edwardsiella tarda. CSF analysis revealed severe meningoencephalitis. Maternal stool culture was also positive for E. tarda, suggesting vertical transmission. Despite initial systemic antibiotic therapy with ampicillin, gentamicin, and ceftriaxone, neuroimaging revealed progressive multifocal brain abscesses. The infant underwent a series of neurosurgical procedures, including bilateral drainage of abscesses, Rickham reservoir placement and ventriculoperitoneal shunting. A revised antibiotic regimen, including systemic meropenem and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole plus intrathecal gentamicin, was administered. At six months, the infant showed mild motor delay with lower limb hypertonia and was under close neurosurgical and developmental follow-up. Methods: We conducted a literature review of 12 published neonatal E. tarda infections, including our case. Results: Most infected infants presented within 72 h of life and exhibited CNS involvement. Mortality was 25%, and 44% of survivors experienced long-term neurologic sequelae. Conclusions: Edwardsiella tarda infection in neonates is rare but potentially devastating. Early suspicion, culture confirmation, aggressive antibiotic therapy, and multidisciplinary care, including neurosurgical management, are essential for improving outcomes.