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A rarely seen cause for empyema: Leuconostoc mesenteroıdes
Hanife Usta-Atmaca1, Feray Akbas, Yesim Karagoz
1Internal Medicine Clinic Istanbul Education and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey. hanifeusta@yahoo.com.
Abstract:
Leuconostoc species are Gram-positive, non-motile, vancomycin-resistant bacteria placed within the family of Streptococcaceae. They naturally exist in food and are important in the sauerkraut, milk and wine industries due to their role in fermentation. Infections caused by Leuconostocs are generally reported in immunosuppressed patients with an underlying disease, or in those who were previously treated with vancomycin. Central venous catheter insertion is also a risk factor for introducing bacteria into the body. Although they are resistant to vancomycin, leuconostocs are sensitive to erythromycin and clindamycin. Here, we report a case with pleural empyema due to Leuconostoc mesenteroides in an otherwise healthy person whose occupation is known to be selling pickles.
Insights
This study reports a rare case of pleural empyema caused by Leuconostoc mesenteroides in a healthy individual. This finding highlights the potential for Leuconostoc infections beyond immunocompromised patients, emphasizing the need for broader clinical awareness.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Leuconostoc species are Gram-positive, vancomycin-resistant bacteria commonly found in fermented foods.
- Infections are typically associated with immunocompromised individuals or those with central venous catheters.
- These bacteria play a significant role in food fermentation industries.
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Clinical Manifestations:
