Aerococcus viridans infection presenting as cutaneous vasculitis in an immunocompetent patient

Aerococcus viridans organisms are Gram-positive cocci that are widely distributed in hospital environments and room air. These bacteria have infrequently been encountered as human pathogens causing bacteremia, endocarditis and urinary tract infections. The significance of these bacteria may be overlooked due to their fastidious growth, and they are often confused with other strains of streptococci or staphylococci.

We present a case of Aerococcus viridans manifesting as cutaneous vasculitis in an immunocompetent patient. A 30-year-old female patient was admitted to hospital after two weeks history of fever, chills and papular rash over the limbs and trunk. The clinical diagnosis of vasculitis was made. Investigations revealed elevated leucocytosis (21.7 × 10⁹/l) with 81% of neutrophils, and an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate or 60 mm/h. Serum anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCAs) were not found. Blood culture showed growth of Aerococcus viridans. Histopathological assessment of skin biopsy revealed cutaneous vasculitis.

To date, no clinical case report of this kind has been reported implicating Aerococcus viridans in cutaneous vasculitis. Increased awareness and more studies of this genus should lead to the identification of its potential role in human infections.