Fulminating encephalopathy associated with Shigella flexneri infection.

Three cases of rapidly fatal encephalopathy associated with Shigella flexneri infection are reported. There was a lack of severe intestinal involvement and absence of metabolic derangement. In all 3 patients, areas of necrosis were present throughout the brains; and in one case pontine haemorrhages and demyelination were seen. This report supports the evidence of a particular neurotoxic effect in shigellosis.