For Brucella infection involving the central nervous system (CNS), what combination therapy is commonly extended beyond the standard six weeks?

Answer

Doxycycline plus rifampin, often alongside a third agent like ceftriaxone or high-dose TMP-SMX

Involvement of the central nervous system (CNS), meaning the bacteria have penetrated the brain or spinal fluid, requires specialized treatment because antibiotics must effectively cross the blood-brain barrier. Standard two-drug regimens are insufficient. A common, intensive approach involves the use of Doxycycline combined with Rifampin, augmented by a crucial third agent, which might be Ceftriaxone or high doses of Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX). Furthermore, due to the difficulty in achieving complete sterilization of the CNS, this complex combination therapy typically requires an extended duration, often lasting for several months past the standard short course.

For Brucella infection involving the central nervous system (CNS), what combination therapy is commonly extended beyond the standard six weeks?
treatmentantibioticInfectionbacteriumbrucellosis