Haemophilus influenzae meningitis: A rare etiology of bacterial meningitis in adults! A case report

Abstract

Invasive Haemophilus influenzae infections can occur as a sepsis, an invasive pneumonia, an epiglottitis and an acute bacterial meningitis. H. influenzae meningitis accounts for about 4% of community-acquired bacterial meningitis in adults. We report a case of Haemophilus influenzae serotype b (Hib) meningitis in a 37-year-old patient having an osteomeningeal breach as a predisposing factor. The diagnosis was established by lumbar puncture. The course was satisfactory with antibiotic treatment. The systematic search for an osteomeningeal breach as well as other risk factors is crucial in any adult patient presenting with an episode of confirmed H. influenzae meningitis. The quick performance of bacteriological samples is primordial in order to obtain an early diagnosis and to ensure a good clinical outcome.