Brucella melitensis infection of ventriculo-peritoneal shunt: A form of neurobrucellosis manifested as gastrointestinal symptoms

Abstract

Summary: A report of a 9 year-old child with Myelomeningocele who has a ventriculo-peritoneal (VP) shunt presented with gastrointestinal symptoms and peritonitis. The patient had no CNS symptoms but the cerebrospinal fluid was positive for Brucella melitensis. We discuss neurobrucellosis in children, its various presentations, complications and challenges in treatment, choice of antibiotics and duration. Keywords: Brucellosis, Ventriculo-peritoneal shunt, Peritonitis, Neurobrucellosis