Cutaneous diphtheria complicated oncologic reconstruction surgery in osteosarcoma

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Bacteriology
• Oncology

Background:

• Diphtheria is typically an upper respiratory tract infection caused by *Corynebacterium diphtheriae*.
• It is uncommon in developed countries due to widespread vaccination.
• Immunocompromised individuals may be at increased risk for atypical presentations.

Observation:

• A young adolescent female on maintenance chemotherapy developed a surgical site infection.
• Wound cultures identified *Corynebacterium diphtheriae* as the causative agent.
• The patient presented with a non-respiratory manifestation of diphtheria.

Findings:

• The surgical site infection was successfully treated with antibiotics and diphtheria antitoxin.
• This case represents a rare instance of cutaneous diphtheria.
• The identification of *Corynebacterium diphtheriae* in a wound highlights its potential as an opportunistic pathogen.

Implications:

• Cutaneous diphtheria should be considered in the differential diagnosis of wound infections in immunocompromised patients, particularly those receiving chemotherapy.
• This case underscores the importance of considering non-respiratory diphtheria presentations in at-risk populations.
• Early recognition and appropriate treatment, including antitoxin, are crucial for managing cutaneous diphtheria.