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Streptococcus pneumoniae: a rare skin pathogen?
The Journal of Infection
|September 8, 2001
Abstract:
Streptococcus pneumoniae is a rare cause of skin infections in adults. We present three cases and a review of the literature on this infection. Nine of the 42 (21%) cases occurred in previously healthy individuals without predisposing conditions. The majority of cases (88%) had bacteraemia. More than half the cases (22/42, 52%) required surgical intervention in addition to antimicrobial therapy.
Insights
Streptococcus pneumoniae rarely causes skin infections in adults. Many cases involve bloodstream infections (bacteraemia) and often require surgery alongside antibiotics.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Streptococcus pneumoniae is a leading cause of community-acquired pneumonia and invasive bacterial infections.
- Skin infections are an uncommon manifestation of Streptococcus pneumoniae in adults.
Observation:
- This study reviews three adult cases of Streptococcus pneumoniae skin infections.
- A literature review identified 42 cases of this rare infection.
Findings:
- Twenty-one percent of cases occurred in previously healthy individuals.
- Bacteraemia (bloodstream infection) was present in 88% of cases.
- Over half of the patients (52%) required surgical intervention in addition to antibiotic treatment.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering Streptococcus pneumoniae in adult skin infections, even in healthy individuals.
- Emphasizes the high rate of bacteraemia and the frequent need for surgical management.
- Informs clinical practice regarding diagnosis and treatment strategies for these rare infections.