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Necrotizing fasciitis caused by Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae
Ramona Simionescu1, Sandeep Grover, Raja Shekar
1Department of Medicine, Huron Hospital, Cleveland, OH, USA.
Southern Medical Journal
|September 30, 2003
Summary
A woman with diabetes mellitus type 2 developed a severe thigh infection. Necrotizing fasciitis caused by Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae was diagnosed, with a pet goldfish suspected as the source.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Diabetes mellitus type 2 is a common comorbidity associated with increased susceptibility to infections.
- Necrotizing fasciitis is a rapidly progressive bacterial infection that destroys soft tissue.
Observation:
- A patient with diabetes mellitus type 2 presented with a thigh infection characterized by foul-smelling purulent discharge.
- Surgical exploration and histopathological examination were performed to diagnose the infection.
Findings:
- The diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis was confirmed.
- Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae was identified as the predominant causative organism.
- A pet goldfish was identified as a potential source of infection.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae to cause severe soft tissue infections like necrotizing fasciitis.
- Awareness of zoonotic transmission, particularly from aquatic pets, is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment.
- Patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 may be at higher risk for such infections.