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Published on: February 14, 2022
Bacteremia caused by Desulfovibrio fairfieldensis
Teruo Urata1, Mitsuru Kikuchi, Taro Hino
1Department of Clinical Laboratory, Toride Kyodo General Hospital, 2-1-1 Hongo, Toride, Ibaraki, 302-0022, Japan. kensa@toride-kyodo-hp.or.jp
Summary
This report details a rare human infection caused by Desulfovibrio fairfieldensis bacteremia. Prompt treatment with biapenem led to a full recovery, marking the first such case in Japan.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Desulfovibrio species are anaerobic, Gram-negative bacilli known for rare human infections.
- These pleomorphic bacteria typically inhabit various environments but are infrequently implicated in clinical settings.
Observation:
- A case of bacteremia in a patient was identified.
- The causative agent was confirmed as Desulfovibrio fairfieldensis.
Findings:
- The patient received biapenem for treatment.
- Rapid clinical improvement and complete recovery without sequelae were observed.
Implications:
- This case represents the first documented infection by Desulfovibrio species in Japan.
- Highlights the importance of considering rare bacterial pathogens in clinical diagnostics.
- Successful treatment with biapenem suggests its efficacy against such infections.
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