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Vibrio vulnificus
1Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232.
Infection Control : IC
|October 1, 1987
Summary
Vibrio vulnificus is a dangerous bacterium found in coastal waters and shellfish. It causes severe wound infections and life-threatening septicemia, particularly in individuals with liver disease.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Vibrio vulnificus is a salt-requiring bacterium found in marine environments.
- It is distinct from other vibrios due to lactose fermentation and lower salt tolerance.
- Unlike other vibrios, V. vulnificus rarely causes gastroenteritis but leads to severe infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail the clinical manifestations and epidemiology of Vibrio vulnificus infections.
- To highlight the distinct disease patterns caused by V. vulnificus.
- To emphasize the high mortality associated with V. vulnificus septicemia.
Main Methods:
- Clinical case review and epidemiological data analysis.
- Bacteriological differentiation of V. vulnificus.
- Correlation of infection source with clinical outcomes.
Main Results:
- V. vulnificus causes severe wound infections in healthy individuals and primary septicemia in those with chronic liver disease.
- Wound infections are linked to seawater or shellfish contact, with a 15% mortality rate.
- Septicemia, associated with raw oyster consumption, presents with hypotension and bullous skin lesions, carrying a >50% mortality rate.
Conclusions:
- Vibrio vulnificus is a significant public health threat in coastal areas.
- Prompt recognition and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in V. vulnificus infections.
- Consumption of raw shellfish poses a high risk for severe V. vulnificus septicemia.