[Streptococcus suis bacteremia]

Séverine Pedroli1, Marylène Kobisch, Olivier Beauchet

  • 1Service des urgences et de réanimation, Hôpital de Beauregard, avenue des Monts du soir, Montbrison.

Presse Medicale (Paris, France : 1983)
|April 26, 2003
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Streptococcus suis bacteremia is a rare but serious zoonotic disease. This case highlights the fatal potential of this infection in humans, even with prompt medical care.

Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Medicine
  • Human Infectious Diseases
  • Zoonotic Diseases

Background:

  • Streptococcus suis is a zoonotic pathogen occasionally causing occupational disease in humans.
  • Infections are typically associated with meningitis, but bacteremia is also possible.

Observation:

  • A hunter developed Streptococcus suis bacteremia after a cut on his thumb was contaminated during wild boar slaughter.
  • The infection rapidly progressed to septic shock, disseminated intravascular coagulation, rhabdomyolysis, and purpura fulminans.

Findings:

  • Blood cultures confirmed Streptococcus suis as the causative agent.
  • Despite intensive care and appropriate antibiotics (penicillin A and macrolide), the patient died within 36 hours.

Implications:

  • Streptococcus suis bacteremia, though uncommon, poses a significant risk and can be fatal in humans.
  • Awareness of transmission risks is crucial for hunters and healthcare practitioners to prevent severe outcomes.

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