Table 1_Case Report: Neurological brucellosis with behavioral abnormalities: a case of Brucella encephalitis with mild cognitive impairment.docx

Brucellosis remains widespread in the central and western parts of China, as well as in pastoral regions like Inner Mongolia. In recent years, however, its geographic spread has expanded into certain areas of the Middle East and northern China, where Brucella melitensis has emerged as the dominant strain. Meanwhile, strains associated with cattle and pigs have seen a decline in prevalence. Although neurological brucellosis is relatively rare among brucellosis cases, it presents a considerable challenge due to its non-specific symptoms and diverse clinical manifestations, which often lead to misdiagnosis or delayed recognition. The most commonly reported symptoms of neurological brucellosis include headaches, along with visual disturbances, hearing impairment, confusion, sleep disorders, seizures, agitation, depression, and signs of peripheral nerve involvement. In instances of encephalitis, alterations in consciousness and focal neurological deficits are frequently observed. Furthermore, it is important to note that certain patients may display psychiatric or behavioral changes. In such instances, obtaining a comprehensive epidemiological history and conducting thorough laboratory tests are essential for an accurate diagnosis.