Neurobrucellosis mimicking primary vasculitis of the central nervous system: we should perform a metagenomic analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid prior to brain biopsy

Abstract

Context Primary angiitis of the central nervous system (PACNS) is characterized by the inflammation of small and medium CNS arteries; the clinical manifestations include headache, cognitive impairment and focal neurological deficits. The gold standard test for diagnosis is brain biopsy. Neurobrucellosis is an infection associated with cattle farming, which leads to neurological and psychiatric symptoms. We report a case of neurobrucellosis mimicking PACNS. Case report Male, 32 years old, with fever, headache, dizziness and cognitive impairments for 30 days. History of stroke 2 years before, with mild sequelae right hemiparesis; investigation showed suspected intracranial dissection. On physical examination, he had apathy, preserved strength, reduced reflexes with plantar flexor responses. General laboratory tests, autoantibodies and serology were normal. Brain MRI showed deep left nucleocapsular gliosis and cerebral angiography revealed stenosis of the ICA and MCA. CSF showed 42 cells/ mm³, glucose 46 mg/dL, protein 82 mg/dL. Blood PCR was negative for Brucella. Immunophenotyping of the CSF and PET-CT excluded neoplasia. Brain biopsy was inconclusive for vasculitis. Metagenomic analysis of the CSF detected 78% of Brucella genetic material. Serum agglutination test was 1:40 for brucella. Conclusions PACNS is diagnosed by exclusion. The patient filled criteria for possible PACNS, image compatible with vascular stenosis, but inconclusive brain biopsy. Brucellosis is an endemic disease in underdeveloped countries that can present as CNS vasculitis. Metagenomic analysis allows the detection of different pathogens using a single method. The case illustrates the use of metagenomics in rare diseases characterized by vasculitis, with change in clinical outcomes and conduct.