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Bacteremic infection with Pediococcus: vancomycin-resistant opportunist.
L L Barton1, E D Rider, R W Coen
1Department of Pediatrics and Steele Memorial Children's Research Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724-5073, USA. llb@peds.arizona.edu
Pediatrics
|May 23, 2001
Summary
Pediococci are emerging Gram-positive pathogens causing severe infections in vulnerable patients. This study highlights a case of Pediococcus infection in an infant with gastroschisis, suggesting a potential link to probiotic use.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Pediococci, Gram-positive bacteria, are increasingly recognized as human pathogens.
- These bacteria exhibit resistance to vancomycin and susceptibility to penicillin.
- Infections are documented in adults with comorbidities and post-abdominal surgery, and in infants with gastrointestinal malformations.
Observation:
- A case of a third infant with gastroschisis is presented.
- The infant developed Pediococcus bacteremia and meningitis three months post-surgery.
Findings:
- Pediococcus species can cause severe invasive infections, including bacteremia and meningitis, in infants with surgical histories.
- The specific strain and its potential virulence factors require further investigation.
Implications:
- This case underscores the need for vigilance regarding Pediococcus infections in immunocompromised infants and those with gastrointestinal anomalies.
- The potential role of probiotics in the pathogenesis of Pediococcus infections warrants further research.