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Necrotizing enterocolitis in a married couple due to a staphylococcal toxin
R J Lieverse1, J van Hooft, G Fedder
1Department of Internal Medicine, Gelre Hospitals, Apeldoorn, The Netherlands. RJ.Lieverse@zca.nl
European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology
|June 9, 2001
Summary
A married couple developed necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) due to the same toxin-producing Staphylococcus aureus strain. This suggests a potential shared environmental exposure or transmission route for this severe gastrointestinal condition.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious condition primarily affecting premature infants.
- While rare in adults, NEC can occur under specific circumstances.
Observation:
- A case study involving a married couple presenting with necrotizing enterocolitis.
- Both individuals were infected with the identical toxin-producing Staphylococcus aureus strain.
Findings:
- The identified Staphylococcus aureus strain was implicated as the causative agent for NEC in both patients.
- This finding highlights the potential pathogenicity of specific S. aureus strains in adult NEC.
Implications:
- Suggests a possible shared source or transmission of Staphylococcus aureus between the couple.
- Underscores the need to consider S. aureus in adult NEC differential diagnoses.
- Warrants further investigation into non-infant transmission routes of pathogenic S. aureus.
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