Shellfish-acquired Vibrio cholerae cellulitis and sepsis from a vulnerable leg

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Clinical Case Study

Background:

• Vibrio cholerae (V. cholerae) is primarily known as the causative agent of cholera, an intestinal infection.
• Extraintestinal V. cholerae infections are uncommon, particularly in individuals without underlying health conditions.
• Understanding the spectrum of V. cholerae infections is crucial for public health and clinical management.

Observation:

• A fisherman sustained a foot injury while launching his fishing dinghy.
• The patient presented with a soft tissue infection.
• The causative agent was identified as Vibrio cholerae.

Findings:

• The isolated V. cholerae strain was confirmed as non-toxigenic.
• The patient's soft tissue infection was successfully managed with medical treatment.
• The patient recovered fully and was discharged after 10 days of hospitalization.

Implications:

• This case highlights the potential for non-toxigenic V. cholerae to cause extraintestinal infections, even from minor trauma.
• Prompt diagnosis and appropriate medical therapy are effective in treating such rare infections.
• Further research may be warranted to understand the epidemiology and risk factors associated with non-toxigenic V. cholerae extraintestinal infections.