Meningoencephalitis and otitis media in a child with Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection

We report on a previously healthy 11-year-old male presenting with meningoencephalitis and otitis media. Computed tomography demonstrated opacification of the right middle ear and mastoid ear cells, but no destructive changes. Anti-Mycoplasma pneumoniae IgG and IgM were positive in serum and at high concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and its nucleic acid was detected in the middle ear fluid and in a throat swab, but not in CSF. EEG showed generalized slowing and right temporal sharp waves. Brain MRI imaging remained normal. After a 3-week treatment with doxycycline and a tympanostomy tube, the patient recovered, and no long-term neurological sequelae have appeared. Diagnostics and pathogenetic mechanisms in meningoencephalitis caused by M. pneumoniae are discussed.Peer reviewe