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Peritonitis caused by Pseudomonas mesophilica in a patient undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis

P C Rutherford1, J E Narkowicz, C J Wood

  • 1Department of Microbiology, Prince Henry's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.

Insights

Recurrent peritonitis in a diabetic patient on peritoneal dialysis was linked to Pseudomonas mesophilica. The probable source was stagnant bath water, marking the first report of this bacterium in such infections.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Nephrology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is a treatment for kidney failure.
  • Peritonitis is a serious complication of CAPD.
  • Pseudomonas species are known causes of CAPD peritonitis.

Observation:

  • A diabetic patient on CAPD experienced recurrent peritonitis.
  • The causative agent was identified as Pseudomonas mesophilica.
  • Stagnant water on a bath rail was identified as the likely source.

Findings:

  • This is the first report of Pseudomonas mesophilica causing peritonitis in a CAPD patient.
  • The bacterium was isolated from the patient's peritoneal fluid.
  • Environmental sampling implicated stagnant water as the reservoir.

Implications:

  • Highlights the importance of environmental hygiene in CAPD patients.
  • Suggests Pseudomonas mesophilica as a potential pathogen in CAPD-associated infections.
  • Emphasizes the need for vigilance regarding water-associated bacteria in healthcare settings.

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