Burkholderia cepacia causing liver and splenic abscess: Two case reports

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Burkholderia cepacia is a bacterial species known to cause infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
• While typically associated with vulnerable populations, there is emerging evidence of its impact on immunocompetent hosts.
• Liver and splenic abscesses are serious intra-abdominal infections requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Observation:

• Two previously healthy adult males presented with symptoms including fever, abdominal pain, and neurological changes.
• Both patients were diagnosed with multiple liver and splenic abscesses.
• Cultures from abscess aspirates confirmed the presence of Burkholderia cepacia.

Findings:

• Burkholderia cepacia was identified as the causative agent in liver and splenic abscesses in two immunocompetent patients.
• Both patients demonstrated a positive clinical response to treatment with cotrimoxazole.
• The cases suggest a potential increase in Burkholderia cepacia infections among immunocompetent individuals.

Implications:

• This case report underscores the importance of considering Burkholderia cepacia in the differential diagnosis of liver and splenic abscesses, irrespective of the patient's immune status.
• The successful treatment with cotrimoxazole provides a potential therapeutic option for such infections.
• Further research is warranted to understand the increasing incidence and risk factors for Burkholderia cepacia infections in immunocompetent populations.