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Cavitating pneumonia caused by Corynebacterium group JK
R D McNaughton1, R R Villanueva, R Donnelly
1Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre, Alberta, Canada.
Journal of Clinical Microbiology
|October 1, 1988
Summary
Corynebacterium group JK was identified in lung fluid from a patient with cavitary lung lesions. Successful treatment was achieved with vancomycin, indicating its efficacy for this infection.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Pulmonology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Thick-walled cavitary lung lesions can present diagnostic challenges.
- Differential diagnosis includes infections by bacteria, mycobacteria, and fungi.
Observation:
- A 72-year-old female presented with four thick-walled cavitary lung lesions.
- Fine needle aspiration of lung fluid was performed.
- Initial cultures and stains for mycobacteria and fungi were negative.
Findings:
- Corynebacterium group JK, a rare bacterial pathogen, was isolated from the lung fluid.
- The patient received an 8-week course of vancomycin therapy.
Implications:
- This case highlights Corynebacterium group JK as a potential cause of cavitary lung disease.
- Vancomycin appears to be an effective treatment for Corynebacterium group JK lung infections.
- Further research may be warranted to understand the pathogenesis and optimal management of such infections.