Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 27, 2026

Simplified Whole Body Plethysmography to Characterize Lung Function During Respiratory Melioidosis
Published on: February 24, 2023
Melioidosis
P Krishnan1, Sushmitha Fernandes, Jayanthi Savio
1Department of Medicine, St. Johns Medical College and Hospital, St. Johns National Academy of Health Sciences, Bangalore, India.
Abstract:
Melioidosis is an emerging infectious disease in India acquired through percutaneous inoculation or contaminated water. Known risk factors include diabetes mellitus, renal failure, cirrhosis, and malignancy. Melioidosis presents with a febrile illness, with protean manifestations ranging from septicemia to localized abscess formation. We present the case of a 42-year-old male from a non-endemic region who presented with fever of 2 months duration, sepsis, persistent pneumonia, right hip joint pain and hepatic and splenic abscesses. Aspiration of the joint and soft tissue fluid collection and subsequent culture yielded gram negative bacilli identified as Burkholderia pseudomallei. The epidemiology, clinical features, and laboratory diagnosis of this rare infection and its treatment is reviewed.
Insights
Melioidosis, an emerging infectious disease in India, can present with diverse symptoms. Early diagnosis of Burkholderia pseudomallei infection is crucial for effective treatment.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Melioidosis is an emerging infectious disease in India.
- Acquisition occurs via percutaneous inoculation or contaminated water.
- Risk factors include diabetes mellitus, renal failure, cirrhosis, and malignancy.
Observation:
- A 42-year-old male from a non-endemic region presented with a two-month fever.
- The patient exhibited sepsis, persistent pneumonia, hip joint pain, and hepatic/splenic abscesses.
- Gram-negative bacilli, identified as Burkholderia pseudomallei, were cultured from joint and fluid aspirates.
Findings:
- The case highlights the protean manifestations of Melioidosis.
- Burkholderia pseudomallei was confirmed as the causative agent.
- Diagnosis involved joint aspiration and fluid culture.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering Melioidosis in febrile illnesses, even in non-endemic areas.
- Understanding the epidemiology and clinical features aids in early diagnosis.
- Prompt laboratory identification and appropriate treatment are vital for patient outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Pulmonary Tuberculosis III
The first classification is based on the development of the disease, and it includes the following categories:
Leishmaniasis
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
Tuberculosis
Bacterial Phylum Spirochaetes
Pulmonary Tuberculosis II
Here is a detailed explanation of its pathophysiology:
Transmission: The process begins when a person inhales droplet nuclei containing M. tuberculosis. These are typically released into the air when an individual with pulmonary or...

