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[Mediastinitis caused by anaerobic bacteria. 4 cases]
D Piperno1, P Gaussorgues, P Léger
1Service de Réanimation et d'Assistance respiratoire, Hôpital de la Croix-Rousse, Lyon.
Presse Medicale (Paris, France : 1983)
|November 14, 1987
Summary
Mediastinitis from anaerobic bacteria, often linked to dental issues, requires prompt diagnosis via imaging. Treatment involves surgery and antibiotics, but outcomes are poor in elderly patients with comorbidities.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Pathology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Mediastinitis, an infection of the mediastinum, can arise from various sources.
- Anaerobic bacteria, particularly Bacteroides fragilis, are implicated in severe cases.
Observation:
- This study reviewed 4 cases of mediastinitis caused by anaerobes.
- Common preceding conditions included dental abscesses, esophageal perforation, and tonsillar abscesses.
Findings:
- Diagnostic indicators included mediastinal widening and pneumomediastinum.
- Bacteroides fragilis was consistently identified in all cases.
- Treatment involved surgical drainage (thoracotomy or cervicotomy) and antibiotic therapy.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and aggressive surgical and antibiotic management are crucial for mediastinitis.
- Prognosis is significantly worse in elderly patients with underlying health conditions.