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Updated: May 29, 2026
12:23
Analysis of Yersinia enterocolitica Effector Translocation into Host Cells Using Beta-lactamase Effector Fusions
Published on: October 13, 2015
Transfusion-transmitted Yersinia enterocolitica sepsis
Françoise Guinet1, Elisabeth Carniel, Alexandre Leclercq
1Yersinia Research Unit, Institut Pasteur, Reference Laboratory and World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Yersinia, Paris, France. francoise.guinet@pasteur.fr
Summary
Yersinia enterocolitica can cause severe bacterial sepsis following blood transfusions. Early antibiotic treatment may improve outcomes for this rare but dangerous transfusion complication.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Hematology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Bacterial sepsis is a significant risk associated with blood transfusions.
- Yersinia enterocolitica, typically a mild enteropathogen, is a notable cause of severe post-transfusion infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the clinical presentation and prognosis of Yersinia enterocolitica-induced post-transfusion sepsis.
- To describe the mechanisms of red blood cell contamination by Y. enterocolitica.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and detailed analysis of 55 published cases of Yersinia enterocolitica transfusion-associated sepsis.
- Description of contamination pathways for red blood cell preparations.
Main Results:
- Yersinia enterocolitica transfusion sepsis presents with rapid-onset septic shock, occasionally preceded by atypical symptoms like explosive diarrhea.
- The overall fatality rate for these cases was 54.5%.
Conclusions:
- Transfusion of contaminated red blood cells with Y. enterocolitica can lead to life-threatening sepsis, primarily due to preformed bacterial endotoxin.
- Prompt antibiotic administration appears to be a critical factor in improving patient prognosis.
- Enhanced blood supply vigilance is recommended, though cost-effective strategies for this rare event remain challenging.
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