Recurrent Methylobacterium mesophilicum sepsis associated with haemodialysis

Methylobacterium mesophilicum is an environmental organism that has infrequently been implicated as a human pathogen. Most reported cases are in immunocompromised hosts. The natural ecology of this organism is related to vegetation or soil. We report the case of a 51-year-old man who developed a recurrent bacteraemia with this organism while receiving haemodialysis through an indwelling intravascular catheter. The literature on the clinical significance of this organism is reviewed together with specific microbiological identifying features which could be of use in the routine diagnostic laboratory.