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Published on: July 19, 2018
Pasteurella multocida Bacteremia Secondary to Peritoneal Dialysis Associated Peritonitis: A Case Report and
John M Giacona1, Maxwell Weiner2, John Hanna3
1Internal Medicine, Cardiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, USA.
Abstract:
We report the fiftieth case in the literature of Pasteurella species peritoneal dialysis (PD)-related peritonitis and the third reported case of Pasteurella multocida bacteremia associated with PD-related peritonitis. Our review provides the most up-to-date collection of all fifty reported cases of PD-related peritonitis caused by Pasteurella species. A 77-year-old Caucasian male with a past medical history significant for new-onset left-ventricular systolic heart failure, severe mitral valve regurgitation, and end-stage renal disease on PD for six months presented to the emergency department with a one-week cloudy peritoneal effluent and intermittent abdominal pain. Pasteurella multocida was isolated from blood cultures and peritoneal fluid cultures. The patient was treated with intravenous piperacillin-tazobactam and intraperitoneal cefepime. The PD catheter was not removed or exchanged. A repeat blood culture on the third hospital day was negative. His hospital course was complicated by cardiogenic shock, atrial fibrillation, and gastrointestinal bleeding, and his goals of care changed to focus on comfort measures. This case report and literature review provide a resource for healthcare providers who may encounter this infection in the future. This case also serves as a reminder of the challenges of PD in patients at risk of acquired zoonotic infections from their pets. Based on the reviewed three cases of Pasteurella multocida bacteremia associated with PD-related peritonitis, blood cultures may be a prudent option for patients presenting with peritoneal dialysis associated peritonitis to ensure that concurrent bacteremia is not overlooked.
Insights
This case highlights a rare Pasteurella multocida peritonitis in a peritoneal dialysis patient. Blood cultures are recommended for early bacteremia detection in PD peritonitis.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Nephrology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a crucial treatment for end-stage renal disease.
- PD-related peritonitis can be caused by various microorganisms, including zoonotic bacteria.
- Pasteurella species, particularly Pasteurella multocida, are uncommon causes of PD peritonitis.
Observation:
- A 77-year-old male on PD presented with symptoms of peritonitis.
- Pasteurella multocida was identified in both peritoneal fluid and blood cultures.
- The patient received tailored antibiotic treatment without PD catheter removal.
Findings:
- This represents the 50th reported case of Pasteurella species peritonitis and the 3rd case of Pasteurella multocida bacteremia associated with PD.
- The literature review compiles all 50 reported cases of PD-related peritonitis caused by Pasteurella species.
- Concurrent bacteremia may be present in PD peritonitis, necessitating blood cultures.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers should consider zoonotic infections in PD patients, especially those with pets.
- Blood cultures should be considered in PD peritonitis cases to rule out concurrent bacteremia.
- This case and review contribute to understanding and managing rare PD-related infections.
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Peritoneal Dialysis II: Peritoneal Dialysis Systems and Complications

