Submandibular abscess caused by Listeria monocytogenes: report of a rare case

Abstract

Listeria monocytogenes infection usually presents with self-limited gastrointestinal symptoms, neurolisteriosis or bacteremia. Focal involvement is very rare. We describe a case of submandibular abscess, with a 3-week progressing history of submandibular pain and swelling, diagnosed concomitantly with type 2 diabetes mellitus. An empirical antibiotic treatment was started and drainage of the abscess was performed. After 13 days, the patient switched to a targeted antibiotic therapy with intramuscular G-penicillin 24MU/day, and a complete resolution of the infection was observed. This case report highlights the need to control risk factors, and to drain and culture pus, in order to effectively treat the infection. Although very rare, we must think of this agent in the presence of a cervical abscess.