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Septic shock and death due to occult sinusitis
1Centre for Audiology, Education of the Deaf & Speech Pathology, University of Manchester.
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|December 1, 1990
Summary
Occult sinusitis can lead to fatal Streptococcus pneumoniae septicaemia in healthy adults. Early suspicion of sinusitis is crucial when the primary infection source is unknown and treatment is ineffective.
Area of Science:
- Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Septicaemia, a life-threatening response to infection, often presents with an unidentified primary focus.
- Streptococcus pneumoniae is a common pathogen implicated in serious bacterial infections.
Observation:
- A previously healthy adult developed fatal septicaemia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae.
- Maxillary sinusitis was incidentally diagnosed via CT scan four days after symptom onset.
- Sinus wash-out yielded pus positive for Streptococcus pneumoniae.
Findings:
- The patient's condition deteriorated despite appropriate antimicrobial therapy.
- The case highlights a fatal outcome from an occult (hidden) sinusitis.
- Blood cultures confirmed Streptococcus pneumoniae septicaemia.
Implications:
- Sinusitis should be considered in unexplained septicaemia cases, particularly those unresponsive to initial treatment.
- This case underscores the importance of considering sinusitis as a potential primary source of severe infections.
- Prompt diagnosis and management of sinusitis may be critical in preventing severe outcomes like septicaemia.