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Postmenopausal pneumococcal tubo-ovarian abscess
G Rahav1, L Ben-David, E Persitz
1Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hadassah University Hospital Ein Kerem, Jerusalem, Israel.
Abstract:
Streptococcus pneumoniae is an uncommon cause of infection in the female genital tract. An unusual case of postmenopausal pneumococcal tubo-ovarian abscess is presented. The pathogenesis of this infection probably entailed the ascent of bacteria from the vagina to the internal genitalia; there was no evidence of infection of the bloodstream or gastrointestinal tract.
Insights
Streptococcus pneumoniae rarely infects the female genital tract. This case highlights an unusual postmenopausal tubo-ovarian abscess caused by pneumococcus, likely ascending from the vagina.
Area of Science:
- Gynecology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Streptococcus pneumoniae is a rare pathogen in female genital tract infections.
- Tubo-ovarian abscesses are typically polymicrobial or caused by other specific pathogens.
Observation:
- An unusual case of a postmenopausal woman presenting with a tubo-ovarian abscess is described.
- The abscess was confirmed to be caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae.
Findings:
- The pathogenesis is presumed to be an ascending infection from the vaginal flora.
- No evidence of concurrent bloodstream or gastrointestinal tract infection was found.
Implications:
- This case expands the known spectrum of infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae.
- Highlights the importance of considering less common pathogens in tubo-ovarian abscesses, particularly in specific patient populations.
- Suggests a potential route of vaginal ascent for pneumococcal infections in the female reproductive system.