Sequential intraventricular injection of tigecycline and polymyxin B in the treatment of intracranial Acinetobacter baumannii infection after trauma: a case report and review of the literature

Abstract Background Intracranial infection after craniotomy is one of the most serious postoperative complications, especially multidrug-resistant (MDR) or extensively drug-resistant (XDR) bacterial meningitis, and strongly affects the prognosis of patients. Current treatment experience regarding these infections is scarce. Case presentation We report a case of severe intracranial infection of XDR Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) that was treated by intravenous (IV) injection, sequential intraventricular (IVT) injection of tigecycline and polymyxin B, and other anti-infective drugs. Good results were obtained, and the patient was eventually discharged from the hospital. This case is characterized by intracranial infection. Conclusions The polymyxin B IV + IVT pathway is an ideal treatment strategy for XDR A. baumannii. The tigecycline IVT pathway is also a safe treatment option.