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Systemic Bacillus species infection mimicking listeriosis of pregnancy
1Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Illinois 60637.
Abstract:
Bacillus species are increasingly recognized as agents of infection in humans. These organisms are ubiquitous in nature and can cause clinical illness ranging from transient bacteremia to serious systemic infection. We describe a pregnant intravenous drug abuser with fever, constitutional symptoms, and premature labor. Her blood cultures yielded gram-positive bacilli, and her clinical course was consistent with systemic listeriosis of pregnancy. Pathological examination of the placenta revealed acute villitis, and Bacillus species grew from cultures of both placenta and blood. Through biochemical testing the isolate was identified as Bacillus pumilis. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of premature labor induced by Bacillus species infection.
Insights
Bacillus pumilis infection in a pregnant woman caused premature labor. This case highlights Bacillus species as potential pathogens in pregnancy, leading to serious complications like acute villitis.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
Background:
- Bacillus species are common environmental bacteria.
- They are increasingly identified as human pathogens.
- Infections can range from mild to severe systemic illness.
Observation:
- A pregnant intravenous drug abuser presented with fever, constitutional symptoms, and premature labor.
- Blood cultures revealed gram-positive bacilli.
- Clinical presentation suggested systemic listeriosis of pregnancy.
Findings:
- Placental examination showed acute villitis.
- Bacillus species were isolated from both blood and placental cultures.
- Biochemical testing identified the species as Bacillus pumilis.
Implications:
- This is the first reported case of Bacillus species-induced premature labor.
- It underscores the potential of Bacillus species to cause obstetric complications.
- Highlights the need for vigilance in diagnosing Bacillus infections during pregnancy.