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Emphysematous cystitis: An atypical multi-organism presentation
Derek Bos1, Premal Patel2, Premal Patal
1Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Greater Sudbury, ON;
Emphysematous cystitis, a serious bladder condition, presents with abdominal pain and blood in urine, particularly in elderly diabetic women. Early detection and treatment are crucial for managing this potentially fatal infection.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Infectious Diseases
- Diabetology
Background:
- Emphysematous cystitis is a rare, severe bladder infection characterized by gas in the bladder wall.
- It predominantly affects elderly diabetic females, often presenting with vague symptoms.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical due to its potentially fatal nature.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of emphysematous cystitis in an elderly diabetic female patient.
- To highlight the atypical multi-organism presentation and diagnostic findings.
- To emphasize the importance of timely intervention.
Main Methods:
- Case presentation of an 84-year-old female with stroke management.
- Clinical examination revealing suprapubic tenderness and tympanic bladder.
- Computed tomography (CT) scan for imaging bladder distension and gas foci.
- Microbiological analysis identifying Klebsiella pneumoniae and Enterococcus species.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with lower abdominal pain, urge incontinence, and gross hematuria.
- CT scan confirmed a distended bladder with gas delineating the bladder wall.
- Microbiology revealed an unusual co-infection with Klebsiella pneumoniae and Enterococcus species.
Conclusions:
- Emphysematous cystitis requires prompt recognition and management, especially in at-risk populations.
- While Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae are common, atypical organisms like Enterococcus can also be involved.
- This case underscores the need for vigilance in diagnosing and treating this potentially life-threatening condition.
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