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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.
Abstract:
We report a case of a 32-year-old man who presented with progressive unilateral parotid gland enlargement and subsequently tested positive for HIV. A CT scan of the neck performed with contrast showed a phlegmon in the region of the right parotid tail measuring approximately 2.5×2.4 cm. Cultures of the aspirated fluid grew Streptococcus pneumoniae and the S. pneumoniae urinary antigen test was also positive. The patient underwent surgical debridement and received antimicrobial therapy with complete resolution of the parotitis. Parotitis caused by S. pneumoniae is rare, and HIV infection should be suspected in any case of invasive pneumococcal disease.
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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