Stenotrophomonas Maltophilia Meningitis in the Children Age Group: A Systematic Review of Case Reports
Abstract
Background: Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (SM) is an emerging opportunistic pathogen in healthcare-associated infections. While it is a well-known cause of pneumonia and bloodstream infections, its role in pediatric meningitis remains rare and underreported. Objective: To systematically review and summarize published pediatric cases of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia meningitis, highlighting risk factors, clinical presentations, CSF profiles, antimicrobial therapy, treatment duration, and outcomes. Methods: Case reports and series were identified using their PubMed ID from 2000 to 2024. Inclusion criteria were: patients aged Results: Eight articles were included, covering 10 pediatric cases. Most patients had identifiable risk factors such as prematurity, neurosurgical interventions (e.g., ventriculoperitoneal shunt), or prior broad-spectrum antibiotic use. Common CSF findings included neutrophilic pleocytosis, elevated protein, and hypoglycorrhachia. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX), fluoroquinolones (ciprofloxacin or levofloxacin), and ceftazidime were the most used antimicrobials. Clinical outcomes were favorable in the majority of cases, with rare mortality and a few with neurological sequelae. Conclusion: Though rare, SM meningitis in pediatrics often occurs in the setting of significant comorbidities or interventions. Awareness, early microbiologic identification, and tailored antimicrobial therapy are key to favorable outcomes.
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