Pathology of culture-proven JK Corynebacterium pneumonia. An autopsy case report

The first description of the pathologic characteristics of JK Corynebacterium pneumonia is presented. Occurring in a profoundly neutropenic patient, the pneumonia was characterized by massive fluid exudation in the alveoli with acute hemorrhage, significant proliferation of the bacteria beginning along the alveolar walls, and eventual alveolar wall necrosis. Other cases of JK Corynebacterium pneumonia are reviewed. This report emphasizes that JK Corynebacterium pneumonia has a high mortality and should be considered in patients with pulmonary deterioration and blood cultures positive for diphtheroids.