Rapidly progressive dementia caused by neurobrucellosis

Abstract

Introduction: Rapidly progressive dementia refers to the onset and progression of cognitive deterioration over a period of less than one to two years. There are different etiologies, some of which are reversible; therefore, strategic diagnosis is needed to allow prompt treatment and reduce possible neurological sequelae.

Case presentation: This article reports a case of dementia secondary to neurobrucellosis, with a fatal outcome.

Discussion: Neurobrucellosis is a rare form of brucellosis that is often difficult to clinically differentiate from other chronic central nervous system infections. Although it has diverse signs and symptoms, it does not usually cause cognitive and functional deterioration, as occurred in this case

Conclusions: Local epidemiology must be considered when evaluating a case of rapidly progressive dementia. Greater clinical and epidemiological characterization of neurobrucellosis is needed in Colombia