Uncommon presentation of neurobrucellosis

ABSTRACT

Brucellosis is a zoonotic infection that affects 500,000 individuals each year worldwide. Neurological complications occur in up to 5% of cases, and ocular involvement is rare. This report describes the case of a 26-year-old woman with progressive lower limb weakness and significant ambulatory impairment following two months of headache, nausea, vomiting, and visual disturbances. The patient had a history of urinary incontinence, lower back pain, and raw goat milk consumption. Clinical examination revealed bilateral papilledema and muscle weakness. Positive Brucella culture, abnormalities in the cerebrospinal fluid, and magnetic resonance imaging findings confirmed the presence of neurobrucellosis. Treatment with antibiotics led to minimal initial improvement. However, significant recovery was observed five months post treatment initiation. This case highlights the importance of considering neurobrucellosis in endemic regions and underscores its distinct clinical and radiological features. Early recognition and treatment are crucial for reducing morbidity.