Acute pyelonephritis and secondary bacteraemia caused by Veillonella during pregnancy

Yusuke Yagihashi1, Yoshitaka Arakaki

  • 1Department of Urology, Chubu Hospital, Uruma, Japan. uroyagiyagi@yahoo.co.jp

BMJ Case Reports
|November 6, 2012
PubMed

Insights

This case study highlights a rare pregnancy complication: pyelonephritis and bacteremia caused by Veillonella species. Ureteral stenting proved effective for treating urosepsis in this pregnant patient.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Obstetrics & Gynecology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Veillonella species are common commensal flora in the oral cavity, gut, and vagina.
  • These bacteria are often dismissed as contaminants in clinical cultures due to their usual non-pathogenic role.

Observation:

  • A pregnant patient presented with pyelonephritis and secondary bacteremia.
  • Veillonella species were isolated from both urine and blood samples, confirming a significant infection.

Findings:

  • The study identified Veillonella species as a causative agent of pyelonephritis and bacteremia during pregnancy.
  • Ureteral stenting was found to be a highly effective treatment for hydronephrosis and urosepsis in this scenario.

Implications:

  • This case expands the understanding of Veillonella's pathogenic potential, particularly in pregnant women.
  • Ureteral stenting should be considered a valuable therapeutic option for managing severe urinary tract infections and sepsis in pregnancy.

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