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[Cellulitis caused by Aeromonas hydrophila].
J de la Fuente Aguado1, A Nodar Germiñas, F Touza Rey
1Servicio de Medicina Interna-Enfermedades Infecciosas, Complejo Hospitalario Xeral-Cíes, Vigo, Pontevedra.
Anales De Medicina Interna (Madrid, Spain : 1984)
|February 25, 2000
Summary
A cirrhotic patient with leukocytoclastic vasculitis developed severe Aeromonas hydrophila sepsis. The infection originated from a surgical leech used during a skin biopsy, highlighting a rare entry route for serious bacterial infections.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Cirrhosis is a severe liver condition associated with increased susceptibility to infections.
- Leukocytoclastic vasculitis is an inflammation of small blood vessels, often with unclear etiology.
- Aeromonas hydrophila is an opportunistic pathogen found in aquatic environments.
Observation:
- A patient with cirrhosis and leukocytoclastic vasculitis presented with rapidly progressing cellulitis.
- The cellulitis featured hemorrhagic bullae, indicating severe tissue damage.
- The patient developed sepsis, a life-threatening systemic inflammatory response.
Findings:
- Aeromonas hydrophila was identified as the causative agent of the infection.
- The portal of entry for the bacteria was determined to be a surgical leech used for a cutaneous biopsy.
- This case illustrates a unique and uncommon route of bacterial inoculation.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of sterile techniques even in procedures like leech therapy for skin biopsies.
- It highlights Aeromonas hydrophila as a potential pathogen in immunocompromised patients, particularly those with liver disease.
- Clinicians should consider rare inoculation sites when diagnosing severe infections in patients with underlying conditions.