Mycobacterium mucogenicum meningitis due to external ventricular drain

Mycobacterium mucogenicumis a rare non-tuberculous organism associated with catheter-related infections when pathogenic in humans. We present the first case of an external ventricular drain (EVD)-associatedM. mucogenicummeningitis. Case presentation A 55-year-old woman had EVD placement for obstructive hydrocephalus following traumatic subarachnoid haemorrhage. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was obtained 5 days later for fever and neurological changes.M. mucogenicumwas ultimately isolated from the CSF and the patient was placed on appropriate antibiotics. Her management included replacement of the EVD and a prolonged course of anti-mycobacterial antibiotics. CSF findings showed her response to therapy and neurological exam improved after 6 weeks. ConclusionM. mucogenicuminfections are very rare and existing reports indicate that it may be a device- or catheter-related pathogen. This microorganism has not been previously associated with an EVD. Ours may be the first documented report of EVD-relatedM. mucogenicuminfection.