Protracted Symptoms in Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis

Abstract

Assumed to be underreported and underrecognized, lymphocytic choriomeningitis presents as a febrile illness transmitted by the common house mouse, Mus musculus. Although asymptomatic or mild febrile illnesses are commonplace, meningitis and meningoencephalitis may develop after symptoms have seemed to improve. Neurologic sequelae are not typical but have been reported and can persist for months. We report a documented case of lymphocytic choriomeningitis in which a previously healthy 17-year-old girl experienced debilitating recurrent headaches and arthralgias for more than a year after discharge. Neuropsychological testing and visual changes were also documented. Further research is needed to estimate the prevalence of this infection, although it has been estimated that 5% of American adults have antibodies to lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus. Education and awareness of the medical community as well as the general public will be critical in prevention as well as advancing future treatment modalities of lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus.