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Purulent Pericarditis Due to Pneumococcal Bacteremia Caused by Acupuncture: An Autopsy Case Report
Hiroyuki Yamaguchi1, Kazuya Nagasaki2, Hiroyuki Kobayashi2
1Department of Rheumatology, Teikyo University Chiba Medical Center, Japan.
Abstract:
Purulent pericarditis is an infection of the pericardial cavity that produces purulent fluid and is commonly caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae. We herein report an autopsy case that is unique in two respects: the patient had pneumococcal bacteremia from a skin and soft tissue infection associated with acupuncture as well as purulent pericarditis from pneumococcal bacteremia. This case suggests that bloodstream infection should be included in the differential diagnosis on observing pneumococcal pericarditis. Furthermore, it is necessary to recognize that S. pneumoniae may be the organism responsible for skin and soft tissue infections caused by trauma in immunosuppressed patients.
Insights
Purulent pericarditis, often caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, can arise from bloodstream infections. This case highlights pneumococcal bacteremia originating from a skin infection linked to acupuncture, leading to pericarditis.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Purulent pericarditis is a serious infection of the pericardial sac, characterized by pus accumulation.
- Streptococcus pneumoniae is a common causative agent of bacterial pneumonia and can lead to invasive infections.
Observation:
- An autopsy case of purulent pericarditis caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae is presented.
- The patient exhibited pneumococcal bacteremia originating from a skin and soft tissue infection.
- This skin infection was associated with acupuncture in an immunosuppressed individual.
Findings:
- The case demonstrates a unique presentation where pneumococcal bacteremia from a skin infection led to purulent pericarditis.
- This highlights the potential for Streptococcus pneumoniae to cause both superficial and deep-seated infections.
Implications:
- Bloodstream infection must be considered in the differential diagnosis of pneumococcal pericarditis.
- Immunosuppressed patients with trauma-related skin infections may be at risk for invasive pneumococcal disease, including S. pneumoniae infections.
