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Published on: October 22, 2013
Peritonitis caused by Campylobacter jejuni and serologically confirmed in a patient being treated with continuous
1Austin Hospital, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.
Abstract:
A case of Campylobacter jejuni peritonitis in a patient being treated with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis is described. The significance of the organism isolated from our patient was initially doubtful because of a rapid defervescence of symptoms with minimal specific antibiotic therapy, lack of a preceding diarrhoeal illness and the time taken to isolate and identify the organism. Serial serum IgM, IgA and IgG antibody estimations clearly showed an acute seroconversion confirming that the strain of C. jejuni isolated was the causative organism in this case.
Insights
This case study details Campylobacter jejuni peritonitis in a continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis patient. Antibody tests confirmed C. jejuni as the cause despite initial diagnostic uncertainty.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is a treatment for kidney failure.
- Peritonitis is a serious complication in CAPD patients.
- Campylobacter jejuni is a common cause of bacterial gastroenteritis.
Observation:
- A CAPD patient developed peritonitis.
- The causative organism, Campylobacter jejuni, was difficult to identify initially.
- Symptoms resolved quickly with minimal antibiotics, and no preceding diarrhea was reported.
Findings:
- Serial antibody level testing (IgM, IgA, IgG) demonstrated acute seroconversion.
- This seroconversion confirmed Campylobacter jejuni as the etiological agent of peritonitis.
- The diagnostic challenge was overcome by immunological evidence.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering Campylobacter jejuni in CAPD peritonitis, even with atypical presentations.
- Suggests serological testing can be crucial for diagnosing challenging infectious cases in immunocompromised or dialysis patients.
- Emphasizes the need for prompt and accurate diagnosis of peritonitis in CAPD to prevent complications.
Related Concept Videos
Extracorporeal Removal of Drugs: Peritoneal Dialysis and Hemodialysis
Acute Pyelonephritis II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Peritoneal Dialysis I: Introduction and Procedure
Peritoneal Dialysis II: Peritoneal Dialysis Systems and Complications
Peritoneal Dialysis III: Nursing Management
Bacterial Gastroenteritis

