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Two cases of severe sepsis caused by Bacillus pumilus in neonatal infants

Maria Kimouli1,2, Georgia Vrioni1, Magdalini Papadopoulou3

  • 1Department of Microbiology, Medical School, University of Athens, Athens, Greece.

Journal of Medical Microbiology
|December 17, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Bacillus pumilus, a rare cause of infection, led to severe sepsis in two neonates. Prompt vancomycin treatment was successful, highlighting its potential as an infant bloodstream pathogen.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Bacillus pumilus is typically an environmental contaminant.
  • Clinical infections associated with B. pumilus are uncommon.
  • Neonatal sepsis requires prompt identification and treatment.

Observation:

  • Two cases of severe sepsis caused by B. pumilus in neonates are presented.
  • One infant had no predisposing factors, while the other required mechanical ventilation and an IV catheter.
  • B. pumilus was consistently isolated from blood cultures in both cases.

Findings:

  • Biochemical assays and 16S rRNA gene sequencing confirmed B. pumilus identification.
  • Both neonates received successful treatment with vancomycin.
  • The study demonstrates B. pumilus can cause severe bloodstream infections in infants.

Implications:

  • B. pumilus should be considered in the differential diagnosis of neonatal sepsis.
  • Early recognition and appropriate antibiotic therapy are crucial for managing B. pumilus infections.
  • Further research is needed to understand the epidemiology and pathogenesis of B. pumilus in neonates.

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