Acute suppurative parotitis caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae in an HIV-infected man

Luis Guzman Vinasco1, Sara Bares1, Uriel Sandkovsky1

  • 1Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA.

BMJ Case Reports
|March 4, 2015
PubMed

Insights

A rare case of Streptococcus pneumoniae parotitis in a 32-year-old man highlights a potential link to HIV infection. Prompt diagnosis and treatment led to complete recovery, emphasizing the importance of considering HIV in invasive pneumococcal disease.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Otolaryngology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Unilateral parotid gland enlargement can indicate various underlying conditions.
  • Streptococcus pneumoniae is a common pathogen but rarely causes parotitis.
  • Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection can predispose individuals to opportunistic infections.

Observation:

  • A 32-year-old male presented with progressive unilateral parotid gland enlargement.
  • CT scan revealed a phlegmon in the right parotid tail.
  • Aspiration cultures identified Streptococcus pneumoniae, confirmed by a positive urinary antigen test.

Findings:

  • The patient tested positive for HIV.
  • Surgical debridement and antimicrobial therapy resulted in complete resolution of parotitis.
  • This case demonstrates a rare instance of S. pneumoniae causing parotitis.

Implications:

  • HIV infection should be considered in patients presenting with invasive pneumococcal disease.
  • This case underscores the importance of a comprehensive diagnostic workup for parotid gland infections, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
  • Early recognition and management of opportunistic infections are crucial in HIV-positive patients.

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