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A case report of melioidosis in a diabetic patient in a union territory

Esther Paul1, M Sudhagar, S Anandhalakshmi

  • 1Department of Microbiology, Pondicherry Institute of Medical Sciences, Ganapthichettikulum, Kalapet, Puducherry - 605014.

The Australasian Medical Journal
|September 17, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Melioidosis, an emerging infectious disease, is increasingly reported in India. This case highlights risk factors like diabetes and occupational exposure, emphasizing the need for prompt diagnosis and treatment of Burkholderia pseudomallei infections.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Melioidosis is an emerging infectious disease with increasing incidence in India and other parts of Asia.
  • Key risk factors include diabetes mellitus, renal disease, thalassemia, and occupational exposure to contaminated soil and water.

Observation:

  • A patient with a six-year history of diabetes presented with a week of fever, myalgia, and headache.
  • Blood and bone marrow cultures confirmed Burkholderia pseudomallei infection.
  • A CT scan revealed multiple pulmonary nodules.

Findings:

  • Successful treatment of melioidosis was achieved using imipenem and doxycycline.
  • Long-term oral therapy with sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim and doxycycline was prescribed for three months.
  • The patient showed gradual clinical improvement and regular follow-up.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering melioidosis in patients with risk factors presenting with febrile illness.
  • Prompt microbiological diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy are crucial for favorable outcomes.
  • Public health awareness regarding environmental exposure risks is essential for prevention.
Keywords:
Bone marrow cultureBurkholderia pseudomalleiDiabetes mellitusMelioidosis

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