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Case report. Clostridium perfringens septicemia with detection of phospholipase C activity in the serum
The American Journal of the Medical Sciences
|January 1, 1976
Abstract:
Clostridium perfringens septicemia with massive hemolysis is described in an elderly woman with refractory anemia. This case is highly unusual in that (1) the diagnosis was made during life by discovery of the organisms on a routine peripheral blood film, and that (2) phospholipase C activity was detected in the serum.
Insights
Clostridium perfringens septicemia causing massive hemolysis was diagnosed in an elderly woman with anemia. Diagnosis was confirmed by identifying bacteria in blood films and detecting phospholipase C activity in serum.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Hematology
- Clinical Microbiology
Background:
- Clostridium perfringens is an opportunistic pathogen.
- Septicemia can lead to severe complications like hemolysis.
- Refractory anemia presents a challenge in diagnosis and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of Clostridium perfringens septicemia with massive hemolysis.
- To highlight an unusual diagnostic approach in a patient with refractory anemia.
- To document the detection of phospholipase C activity in a clinical setting.
Main Methods:
- Peripheral blood film examination for organism identification.
- Detection of phospholipase C activity in patient serum.
- Clinical case review and literature analysis.
Main Results:
- Clostridium perfringens identified on routine peripheral blood film during the patient's lifetime.
- Significant phospholipase C activity detected in the patient's serum.
- Massive hemolysis observed in the context of septicemia.
Conclusions:
- Clostridium perfringens septicemia can manifest with severe hemolysis, even in elderly patients with underlying conditions.
- Peripheral blood film analysis is a valuable tool for rapid diagnosis.
- Detection of phospholipase C activity can support the diagnosis of C. perfringens infection.