Paeniclostridium sordellii causing liver abscess: A rare case report in India

Srestha Mitra1, Jai Bhagwan1, Ashish William1

  • 1Department of Microbiology, Maulana Azad Medical College & Associated Lok Nayak Hospital, New Delhi, India.

Insights

Paeniclostridium sordellii, a rare anaerobic bacterium, can cause severe liver infections. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment, including drainage and antibiotics, are crucial for survival in patients with pyogenic liver abscesses.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Hepatology

Background:

  • Paeniclostridium sordellii is an anaerobic bacterium known to cause hepatic infections, particularly in alcoholics and post-liver transplantation patients.
  • Liver and brain abscesses due to this bacterium are uncommon but can be serious complications.

Observation:

  • A rare case of pyogenic liver abscess caused by Paeniclostridium sordellii was identified in India.
  • The patient's condition required prompt medical and surgical intervention.

Findings:

  • Early and accurate microbiological diagnosis was key to identifying Paeniclostridium sordellii as the causative agent.
  • The successful management involved a combination of drainage procedures and targeted antibiotic therapy.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the importance of timely and precise microbiological diagnosis in managing rare bacterial infections.
  • Comprehensive medical-surgical treatment strategies are vital for reducing mortality associated with Paeniclostridium sordellii infections.

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