Sequential Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia and Chromobacterium violaceum skin abscess in a pediatric patient

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology
• Clinical Case Reports

Background:

• Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a frequent cause of pediatric community-acquired pneumonia.
• Bacterial super-infections are uncommon, typically limited to Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae.
• Chromobacterium violaceum is a rare pathogen in pediatric super-infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the first documented case of Chromobacterium violaceum super-infection after Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in a child.
• To highlight the unusual presentation and successful management of this rare co-infection.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 12-month-old girl.
• Clinical observation of symptoms including fever and a progressing hand abscess.
• Microbiological identification of Chromobacterium violaceum.
• Treatment with intravenous meropenem and surgical abscess drainage.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with fever and a skin abscess on the index finger.
• Chromobacterium violaceum was identified as the causative agent of the super-infection.
• Successful recovery following antibiotic therapy and surgical intervention.

Conclusions:

• Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia can precede rare bacterial super-infections like Chromobacterium violaceum.
• This case underscores the importance of considering unusual pathogens in pediatric respiratory infections with secondary manifestations.
• Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes in such cases.