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Rhodococcus equi peritonitis in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis.
Kai Ming Chow1, Cheuk Chun Szeto, Viola Chi-Ying Chow
1Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong, China.
Journal of Nephrology
|January 22, 2004
Summary
Rhodococcus equi (R. equi) infections are emerging in patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). Early diagnosis is crucial, even without a history of animal contact, to prevent prolonged treatment and complications.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Nephrology
Background:
- Emerging Rhodococcus equi (R. equi) infections present diagnostic challenges, particularly in extrapulmonary cases.
- Patients with end-stage renal failure (ESRF) on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) are susceptible to unusual infections.
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status does not exclude the possibility of R. equi infection.
Observation:
- This study reports six cases of R. equi CAPD peritonitis.
- Diagnosis of R. equi peritonitis was delayed, averaging 15 days.
- Two patients experienced prolonged antibiotic therapy and morbidity.
Findings:
- Rhodococcus equi should be considered in suspected diphtheroid or Nocardia CAPD peritonitis.
- A history of animal contact is not a prerequisite for R. equi infection.
- This is the largest reported series on R. equi CAPD peritonitis, underscoring its clinical impact.
Implications:
- Increased awareness of R. equi as a cause of CAPD peritonitis is needed.
- Timely diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic management can improve patient outcomes.
- Further research into R. equi pathogenesis and treatment in CAPD patients is warranted.