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Capnocytophaga infection involving a portal-systemic vascular shunt
K A Mello1, D R Snydman, S Arora
1Department of Medicine, New England Medical Center Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02111.
Abstract:
Capnocytophaga sp., a microaerophilic gram-negative isolate of the human oral cavity, has previously been reported to cause sinusitis, empyema, wound infections, conjunctivitis, subphrenic abscess, osteomyelitis, bacteremia, cervical abscess, and endocarditis. We report the unusual case of infection with this organism at the anastamotic site of a splenorenal portosystemic vascular shunt. In this case, the pathogenesis is presumed to be bacteremia related to mucosal trauma from endoscopic injection sclerotherapy or bacteremia secondary to dental infection. The characteristics and antibiotic sensitivities of Capnocytophaga are reviewed.
Insights
Capnocytophaga sp. can cause various infections. This study details a rare case of Capnocytophaga infection at a vascular shunt site, likely due to bacteremia from medical procedures or dental issues.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Capnocytophaga sp. are gram-negative bacteria commonly found in the human oral cavity.
- These bacteria are known to cause a range of infections, including sinusitis, osteomyelitis, and endocarditis.
Observation:
- This report describes an unusual infection caused by Capnocytophaga sp. at the anastomotic site of a splenorenal portosystemic vascular shunt.
- The patient presented with an infection at the surgical site, which is a rare manifestation for this pathogen.
Findings:
- The presumed pathogenesis involves bacteremia, potentially linked to mucosal trauma during endoscopic injection sclerotherapy or secondary to dental infections.
- The study reviews the specific characteristics and antibiotic sensitivities of the Capnocytophaga isolate.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for Capnocytophaga sp. to cause opportunistic infections in unusual locations, particularly in patients with vascular shunts.
- Understanding the antibiotic sensitivities is crucial for effective treatment of these rare infections.