Unusual causes of peritonitis in a peritoneal dialysis patient: Alcaligenes faecalis and Pantoea agglomerans

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology

Background:

• Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a vital treatment for end-stage renal disease.
• Peritonitis is a common complication of PD, requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment.
• Identifying the causative microorganisms is crucial for effective management and preventing recurrence.

Observation:

• An 87-year-old female patient on PD experienced recurrent peritonitis.
• The initial episode was attributed to Alcaligenes faecalis.
• A subsequent episode, in the following year, was caused by Pantoea agglomerans.

Findings:

• This report details two consecutive years of peritonitis in a PD patient.
• The causative agents, Alcaligenes faecalis and Pantoea agglomerans, are infrequently reported in PD-associated peritonitis.
• The study emphasizes the need to consider less common bacteria in PD peritonitis cases.

Implications:

• The findings underscore the importance of comprehensive microbiological investigation in PD patients with recurrent peritonitis.
• Recognizing unusual pathogens like Alcaligenes faecalis and Pantoea agglomerans can guide appropriate antimicrobial therapy.
• This case contributes to understanding the spectrum of microbial challenges in peritoneal dialysis care.