Pediatric acute dacryocystitis due to Eikenella corrodens: A case report

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Ophthalmology

Background:

• Eikenella corrodens is a Gram-negative bacterium found in the oropharynx and respiratory tract.
• It belongs to the HACEK group, known for causing endocarditis and craniofacial infections.
• E. corrodens typically shows susceptibility to penicillin, cephalosporins, and carbapenems, with variable response to first-generation cephalosporins.

Observation:

• This report details the first pediatric case of acute dacryocystitis caused by E. corrodens.
• The affected child did not respond to initial oral cephalexin treatment.
• The infection necessitated surgical drainage and subsequent intravenous cefotaxime therapy.

Findings:

• Eikenella corrodens can be an etiological agent of pediatric acute dacryocystitis.
• Variable antibiotic susceptibility, even within cephalosporin classes, is noted.
• Successful management involved a combination of surgical intervention and targeted intravenous antibiotics.

Implications:

• Highlights the need for considering E. corrodens in pediatric dacryocystitis, especially in treatment-resistant cases.
• Emphasizes the importance of appropriate antibiotic selection and potential need for surgical management.
• Contributes to understanding the clinical spectrum of E. corrodens infections in pediatric patients.