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Retroperitoneal abscess complicated by acupuncture: case report
Yong Pil Cho1, Hyuk Jai Jang, Jee Soo Kim
1Department of Surgery, University of Ulsan Medical College, Gangneung Asan Hospital, Gangneung, Korea. ypcho@gnah.co.kr
Abstract:
With acupuncture treatment becoming an increasingly popular analgesic, there have been increasing reports on its associated complications. Although pneumothorax is the most frequently reported injury caused by acupuncture needles, infectious complications may not be uncommon. Most infectious complications show less serious clinical manifestations than pneumothorax, but retroperitoneal or intraabdominal abscess caused by acupuncture may be much more serious conditions. We experienced a 56-yr-old male diabetic patient presenting with serious retroperitoneal abscess after acupuncture treatments. Emergency operative drainage with adequate antibiotic therapy was performed. Bacterial culture of blood and closed pus specimens recovered Klebsiella pneumoniae. In addition to application of better knowledge on anatomy, appropriate antiseptic practice by practitioners will reduce many serious complications associated with acupuncture.
Insights
Acupuncture complications can be serious, including retroperitoneal abscesses. Proper antiseptic practices and anatomical knowledge are crucial for practitioners to prevent severe infections from acupuncture.
Area of Science:
- Integrative Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Acupuncture is a popular analgesic therapy with increasing reports of complications.
- While pneumothorax is common, infectious complications are also a concern.
- Retroperitoneal or intraabdominal abscesses represent serious acupuncture-related infections.
Observation:
- A 56-year-old male diabetic patient developed a severe retroperitoneal abscess post-acupuncture.
- The patient required emergency operative drainage and antibiotic therapy.
- Klebsiella pneumoniae was identified from blood and pus cultures.
Findings:
- Infectious complications from acupuncture, though less common than pneumothorax, can be severe.
- Retroperitoneal abscess is a serious, potentially life-threatening complication.
- Klebsiella pneumoniae identified as the causative agent in this case.
Implications:
- Enhanced anatomical knowledge and strict antiseptic practices are essential for acupuncturists.
- These measures are critical to minimize the risk of severe infectious complications.
- Patient safety in acupuncture therapy necessitates rigorous adherence to procedural standards.
