Electronic Vaping-Induced Methicillin-Sensitive Staphylococcus Aureus Pneumonia and Empyema

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Pulmonology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Pneumonia is a leading cause of infection-related mortality.
• Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) causes community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), with methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA) being more common than methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA).
• Recent research suggests electronic cigarette vapor exposure (ECVE) may increase S. aureus virulence.

Observation:

• A PubMed search found no prior reports of MSSA CAP linked to ECVE.
• A 38-year-old female developed acute MSSA pneumonia complicated by empyema.
• The patient's condition was associated with ECVE from a JUUL device using third-party cannabidiol pods.

Findings:

• This case presents the first reported instance of MSSA community-acquired bacterial pneumonia and empyema potentially caused by ECVE.
• The patient successfully recovered after chest tube placement, fibrinolysis, and intravenous antibiotics.

Implications:

• ECVE may represent a novel risk factor for severe S. aureus pneumonia.
• Further research is warranted to investigate the link between ECVE and S. aureus lung infections.
• This case highlights the potential pulmonary risks associated with electronic cigarette use, particularly with additives like cannabidiol.