A case report: Splenic abscess caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology
• Tropical Medicine

Background:

• Melioidosis, caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, is an emerging infectious disease.
• Splenic abscesses due to melioidosis are rare, with few reported cases in Hainan, China.

Observation:

• A 55-year-old male farmer presented with persistent abdominal pain, chills, and fever.
• Initial anti-infection therapy provided only slight symptom relief, with recurrent abdominal pain.
• Bacteria identified as Burkholderia pseudomallei were isolated from splenic pus.

Findings:

• The patient underwent surgical excision of the splenic abscess.
• Treatment included intravenous ceftazidime and oral trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole for two weeks.
• Clinical symptoms improved following the combined therapeutic approach.

Implications:

• Burkholderia pseudomallei should be considered in endemic regions for splenic abscesses, especially in patients with risk factors.
• Prompt identification of B. pseudomallei from abscesses is vital for effective treatment.
• Combined antimicrobial therapy and surgical drainage significantly improve clinical outcomes for melioidosis-induced splenic abscesses.