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Pelvic inflammatory disease due to Streptococcus pneumoniae: a usual pathogen at an unusual place

S Lemoyne1, J Van Leemput, D Smet

  • 1Department of Intensive Care Medicine, GZA Sint-Augustinus, Wilrijk, Belgium.

Acta Clinica Belgica
|January 28, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Streptococcus pneumoniae rarely causes pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). This study found a link between intrauterine devices (IUDs) and PID caused by S. pneumoniae in young women, with successful treatment via antibiotics and IUD removal.

Area of Science:

  • Gynecology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a significant gynecological infection.
  • Streptococcus pneumoniae is a common pathogen causing respiratory infections, bacteremia, and meningitis.
  • Genital tract infections by S. pneumoniae are rare.

Observation:

  • Three previously healthy young women presented with acute, severe abdominal pain.
  • All patients had an intrauterine device (IUD) in situ.
  • No history of abnormal sexual behavior was noted.

Findings:

  • S. pneumoniae was identified as the causative agent in all three PID cases.
  • IUD cultures confirmed S. pneumoniae in all patients.
  • Blood cultures were positive for S. pneumoniae in two of the three patients.

Implications:

  • This study highlights a rare cause of PID in young women.
  • The findings suggest a potential association between IUD use and S. pneumoniae PID.
  • Prompt diagnosis, antibiotic treatment, and IUD removal are crucial for recovery.

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