Lung abscess by Streptococcus intermedius: An unusual first case report from India

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology
• Pulmonology

Background:

• Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a common comorbidity associated with increased susceptibility to infections.
• Streptococcus intermedius is typically considered a commensal organism, but can occasionally act as a pathogen.

Observation:

• A previously untreated patient with Type 2 diabetes presented with symptoms of a lung abscess, including non-productive cough and right-sided chest pain.
• Microbiological evaluation of the patient's sputum or abscess aspirate identified Streptococcus intermedius as the causative agent.

Findings:

• The patient received appropriate antibiotic therapy targeting Streptococcus intermedius.
• The patient demonstrated a positive clinical response to the antibiotic treatment, indicating successful management of the lung abscess.

Implications:

• This case highlights Streptococcus intermedius as a potential pathogen, particularly in immunocompromised individuals such as those with uncontrolled diabetes.
• Healthcare professionals should exercise caution and consider S. intermedius as a pathogen, rather than solely a commensal, in the context of severe infections.
• Early and accurate microbiological diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of lung abscesses caused by less common pathogens.