Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 2, 2026

The Mouse Forced Swim Test
Published on: January 29, 2012
Swimming with the Pigs: A Case of Severe Soft Tissue Infection during a Caribbean Vacation
Alexandra W Dretler1, Jesse T Jacob1, Nadine G Rouphael1
1Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
Abstract:
A 74-year-old man presented to the emergency department with severe right leg cellulitis following a trip to the Bahamas where he swam in both chlorinated pools and the ocean. His blood cultures grew Shewanella species, a marine pathogen known to cause disease in humans, following exposure to seawater. He was treated with cefepime for a total of two weeks without needing any surgical intervention. The patient had complete resolution of infection and was able to return to his activities of daily living.
Related Concept Videos
Infection
The chain begins with pathogens: bacteria, viruses, fungi, prions, or parasites such as protozoa helminths. These can be present on the skin as transient or resident flora, or they can be acquired from the environment. Identifying and treating the type of infection and...
Stages of Infection
Tissues
Tissues
Defense Mechanism Against Infection
In addition, many body organ systems have unique defenses against infection. The skin is an intact, multilayered surface preventing invasion by microorganisms unless impaired. Mucous membranes lining the mouth, nose, and eyelids are barriers...
Sexually Transmitted Infections

