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Epithelial Cell Infection Analyses with Shigella
04:56

Epithelial Cell Infection Analyses with Shigella

Published on: February 9, 2024

Keratitis due to Shigella flexneri

Harry L Muytjens1, Catharina A Eggink, Frederik C A P Dijkman

  • 1Department of Medical Microbiology, Nijmegen University Centre of Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands.

Journal of Clinical Microbiology
|June 8, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Multiresistant Shigella flexneri, a rare cause of ulcerative keratitis, was identified in a girl's cornea and stool. Genetic analysis confirmed identical isolates, highlighting the importance of recognizing this infection.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Shigella species are uncommon causes of ulcerative keratitis, with limited documented cases historically.
  • Ulcerative keratitis can lead to severe vision impairment if not promptly treated.

Observation:

  • Multiresistant Shigella flexneri strains were isolated from both the cornea and stool samples of a pediatric patient.
  • Genetic sequencing confirmed that the Shigella isolates from the different body sites were identical.

Findings:

  • This case represents one of the few documented instances of Shigella-induced ulcerative keratitis.
  • The genetic identity of isolates suggests a potential systemic source or transmission route for the infection.

Implications:

  • Early diagnosis and appropriate antimicrobial therapy are crucial for managing Shigella keratitis to prevent vision loss.
  • This case underscores the need for considering atypical pathogens in severe ocular infections, even in the presence of systemic symptoms like shigellosis.

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