[Submental abscess by Lactobacillus acidophilus/jensenii]

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Oral Health

Background:

• Lactobacillus species are common commensal bacteria found in the gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and oral tracts.
• These bacteria are generally considered to have low pathogenicity.
• Lactobacillus infections are typically associated with more virulent microorganisms or occur in immunocompromised hosts.

Observation:

• A case of a submental abscess was investigated.
• The patient was immunocompetent, meaning their immune system was functioning normally.
• Lactobacillus was identified as the sole etiological agent responsible for the abscess.

Findings:

• Lactobacillus species, despite their usual low pathogenicity, can act as a primary pathogen.
• This study presents a rare instance of Lactobacillus causing infection independently in an immunocompetent patient.
• The specific species of Lactobacillus and its virulence factors in this context warrant further investigation.

Implications:

• This finding expands the understanding of Lactobacillus's potential role in human infections.
• Clinicians should consider Lactobacillus as a potential causative agent in abscesses, even in immunocompetent individuals.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms by which Lactobacillus can cause infection alone.