Community acquired Klebsiella pneumoniae meningitis: a case report.

INTRODUCTION: Klebsiella pneumoniae meningitis is most commonly seen as a nosocomial infection and in post-neurosurgical patients. Reports of community acquired Klebsiella pneumoniae meningitis cases are rare in the United States. The objective of this case report is to discuss an uncommon pathogen causing meningitis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, its risk and prognostic factors and to emphasize the importance of early recognition and appropriate antibiotic treatment. CASE REPORT: We report a clinical case of adult community acquired Klebsiella pneumoniae meningitis with recovery. A 54-year-old diabetic male presented with two-week history of intermittent fevers, acute bilateral ear pain, headache and unsteady gait. Broad spectrum antibiotics were initiated. Klebsiella pneumoniae was isolated in the cerebrospinal fluid cultures. The patient recovered with only mild hearing loss in his left ear.
CONCLUSION: Our case highlights the importance of suspecting Klebsiella pneumoniae in community acquired meningitis.