Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 19, 2026

Simplified Whole Body Plethysmography to Characterize Lung Function During Respiratory Melioidosis
Published on: February 24, 2023
Cutaneous melioidosis
Lynn Teo1, Yong-Kwang Tay, Kent J F Mancer
1Division of Dermatology, Changi General Hospital, Singapore. lynnteohweeying@hotmail.com
Abstract:
Melioidosis is an infection caused by the gram-negative bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei. This disease is endemic in Southeast Asia and North Australia with sporadic occurrence in temperate countries, mostly imported from travellers. Any organ can be involved in melioidosis whereby Burkholderia pseudomallei causes an acute inflammatory reaction with rapid development of small abcesses which tend to coalesce to form larger abscesses. Cutaneous manifestations vary greatly. We report a man with systemic melioidosis who presented with cutaneous lesions.
Insights
Melioidosis, a serious infection caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, can affect any organ. This case highlights systemic melioidosis presenting with varied cutaneous lesions, emphasizing the bacterium
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Bacteriology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Melioidosis is an infection caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, a gram-negative bacterium.
- The disease is endemic in Southeast Asia and Northern Australia, with sporadic cases in temperate regions, often linked to travelers.
Observation:
- Burkholderia pseudomallei can affect any organ, triggering acute inflammation and abscess formation.
- Cutaneous manifestations of melioidosis are highly variable.
Findings:
- This report details a case of systemic melioidosis in a male patient.
- The patient presented with distinct cutaneous lesions indicative of the systemic infection.
Implications:
- Understanding the diverse clinical presentations of melioidosis, including skin lesions, is crucial for timely diagnosis.
- Early recognition of systemic melioidosis is vital for effective treatment and patient outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Skin Diseases and Disorders
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...
Staphylococcal Skin Infections
Leishmaniasis
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
The Skin Microbiota
