Prolonged Lactobacillus Bacteremia With Abdominal Abscesses Secondary to Traumatic Injuries From Pet Dogs: A Case...

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Probiotics

Background:

• Lactobacillus casei is a common commensal bacterium in the human oropharynx and gastrointestinal tract.
• Lactobacillus species are widely utilized in probiotics and commercial food products.
• Invasive Lactobacillus infections are infrequent, typically occurring in immunocompromised patients or those with cancer.

Observation:

• This report details a rare instance of prolonged Lactobacillus bacteremia.
• The patient developed multiple intra-abdominal abscesses.
• The likely source of infection was attributed to injuries sustained from pet dogs.

Findings:

• The case demonstrates Lactobacillus bacteremia and abscess formation in a patient without apparent immunosuppression or malignancy.
• The clinical presentation suggests a potential zoonotic transmission route from pet dogs.

Implications:

• This case expands the known spectrum of Lactobacillus-related infections.
• It underscores the importance of considering unusual sources, such as animal-related injuries, in the etiology of Lactobacillus bacteremia.
• Further investigation into the pathogenic potential of Lactobacillus species in specific exposure contexts may be warranted.