Listeria meningoencephalitis is a kind of bacterial meningoencephalitis caused by Listeria monocytogenes( LM) , which most often occurs in immunocompromised persons. LM is a zoonotic pathogen transmitted through contaminated food. Historically , Europe and the United States have reported a greater number of infections, while infections in China are reported rarely. With its high mortality , it is difficult to diagnose Listeria meningoencephalitis due to the fact that the clinical manifestations are similar to other bacterial meningitis. It is also difficult to distinguish Listeria meningoencephalitis from tuberculous meningitis via cerebrospinal fluid. Diagnosis depends on the results of the cerebrospinal fluid smear and culture. In the present paper, a case of severe Listeria meningoencephalitis is reported. A middle-aged woman from the Philippines with normal immune function is presented with acute onset of illness whose condition deteriorated rapidly despite receiving routine therapy for viral meningoencephalitis and tuberculous meningitis. Respiratory failure occurred three weeks after onset of illness and tracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation became necessary. After LM was found in cerebrospinal fluid , ampicillin combined with aminoglycoside was administered for three weeks. The patient recovered fully and was discharged. Here we summarize the clinical features , risk factors , progression and outcome of Listeria meningoencephalitis.