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Simplified Whole Body Plethysmography to Characterize Lung Function During Respiratory Melioidosis
Published on: February 24, 2023
Melioidosis: Series of Eight Cases
Ujjwayini Ray1, Soma Dutta2, Suresh Ramasubban3
1Consultant Microbiologist.
Objective:
Melioidosis caused by the Gram-negative bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei is a very serious infection and has been sporadically reported from the Indian subcontinent. This disease entity can have acute and chronic presentations involving different organ systems. The purpose of this study is to analyze the risk factors, clinical presentations, therapy and outcome of culture proven cases of melioidosis.
Methods:
We carried out a retrospective study of eight culture proven cases of melioidosis at a tertiary care hospital in West Bengal.
Results:
In this series we have found that melioidosis presents with a variety of symptoms ranging from acute presentations in the form of fulminant septicaemia, multiple abscesses in internal organs, osteomyelitis to more chronic form of the infection masquerading as tuberculosis. Bone and joint involvement are particularly common. Diabetes mellitus and chronic alcoholism are significant risk factors.
Conclusions:
India or parts of India are possibly endemic areas for melioidosis. Lack of awareness and the diversity of its presentation are probably responsible for underdiagnosis and under reporting.
Insights
Melioidosis, a serious infection caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, presents diverse symptoms and has significant risk factors like diabetes. Early diagnosis and awareness are crucial for better outcomes in endemic regions.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Bacteriology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Melioidosis, caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, is a severe infection with varied presentations.
- Sporadic cases are reported from the Indian subcontinent, highlighting a potential endemicity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze risk factors, clinical manifestations, treatment, and outcomes of culture-proven melioidosis cases.
- To understand the spectrum of melioidosis presentations in a tertiary care setting.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of eight culture-proven melioidosis cases.
- Data collected from a tertiary care hospital in West Bengal.
Main Results:
- Melioidosis presents acutely (septicemia, abscesses) and chronically (mimicking tuberculosis).
- Bone and joint involvement are common. Diabetes mellitus and chronic alcoholism are identified as significant risk factors.
Conclusions:
- India may be an endemic area for melioidosis.
- Underdiagnosis and underreporting are likely due to lack of awareness and diverse clinical presentations.
