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Published on: July 18, 2017
Pyelonephritis and Bacteremia from Lactobacillus delbrueckii
Kevin M Duprey1, Leon McCrea, Bonnie L Rabinowitch
1Department of Family Medicine, Crozer-Keystone Health System, Springfield, PA 19064, USA.
Lactobacillus delbrueckii, a rare cause of infection, was identified as the agent of pyelonephritis and bacteremia in a woman. This highlights the potential for Lactobacillus species to cause severe infections in susceptible individuals.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Lactobacilli are common commensal bacteria found in the oropharynx, gastrointestinal tract, and vagina.
- While typically harmless, Lactobacillus infections can occur, particularly in immunocompromised or predisposed individuals.
- Pyelonephritis and bacteremia are serious infections of the kidney and bloodstream, respectively.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of pyelonephritis and bacteremia caused by Lactobacillus delbrueckii.
- To contribute to the understanding of Lactobacillus species as potential pathogens.
- To emphasize the importance of identifying causative agents in complex infections.
Main Methods:
- Case report detailing clinical presentation and diagnostic findings.
- Microbiological identification of Lactobacillus delbrueckii from blood and urine cultures.
- Review of relevant literature on Lactobacillus infections.
Main Results:
- Lactobacillus delbrueckii was successfully isolated and identified as the causative agent in a patient presenting with pyelonephritis and bacteremia.
- The patient's clinical course and treatment outcomes were documented.
- Analysis of predisposing factors in the patient.
Conclusions:
- Lactobacillus delbrueckii can cause severe invasive infections such as pyelonephritis and bacteremia.
- Prompt and accurate microbiological diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of Lactobacillus infections.
- Further research is warranted to understand the pathogenesis and risk factors associated with Lactobacillus bacteremia.
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