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Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis due to Yersinia enterocolitica in secondary alcoholic hemochromatosis
B de Cuenca-Moron1, J A Solis-Herruzo, D Moreno
1Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Doce de Octubre, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain.
Abstract:
Yersinia enterocolitica is a rare cause of systemic infections, including spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. Most reported cases have been in patients with iron overload or host defenses compromised by chronic illnesses. We report the case of an alcoholic patient with hemochromatosis who developed spontaneous bacterial peritonitis due to Yersinia enterocolitica.
Insights
Yersinia enterocolitica rarely causes systemic infections like spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. This case highlights an alcoholic patient with hemochromatosis who developed this infection.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Yersinia enterocolitica is an uncommon pathogen causing systemic infections.
- Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is typically associated with liver disease.
- Iron overload and compromised host defenses are risk factors for Yersinia infections.
Observation:
- A patient with a history of alcoholism and hemochromatosis presented with symptoms of peritonitis.
- Ascitic fluid analysis revealed the presence of Yersinia enterocolitica.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis caused by Yersinia enterocolitica.
- This case underscores the potential for Yersinia enterocolitica to cause SBP in specific patient populations.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering Yersinia enterocolitica in patients with risk factors like alcoholism and hemochromatosis presenting with SBP.
- Suggests that iron overload may play a role in Yersinia pathogenesis.
- May inform diagnostic and treatment strategies for rare SBP etiologies.