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A complex case of bacterial pericarditis caused by a new pathogenic agent
Joana Lima Lopes1, Daniel Candeias Faria1, Bárbara Flor-de-Lima2
1Cardiology Department, Hospital Professor Doutor Fernando Fonseca, Amadora, Portugal.
GMS Infectious Diseases
|October 10, 2024
Summary
Dermabacter hominis, a skin bacterium, can cause opportunistic infections. This case highlights its rare but aggressive presentation in pericardial fluid, leading to infectious bacterial pericarditis.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
Background:
- Dermabacter hominis is a gram-positive, facultative anaerobic bacterium commonly colonizing human skin.
- It is known to cause opportunistic infections, primarily in immunocompromised individuals.
- Previously reported infections involve bone, joints, eyes, and devices like peritoneal dialysis catheters and vascular grafts.
Observation:
- This study reports the first documented case of Dermabacter hominis isolated from pericardial fluid.
- The patient presented with infectious bacterial pericarditis.
- The clinical course was aggressive with a poor outcome.
Findings:
- Dermabacter hominis can be an etiological agent of infectious bacterial pericarditis.
- The bacterium's presence in pericardial fluid indicates a potential for severe, invasive infections.
- This contrasts with the generally favorable outcomes reported for other D. hominis infections.
Implications:
- This case expands the spectrum of clinical manifestations attributed to Dermabacter hominis.
- It underscores the importance of considering less common pathogens in severe infections, particularly pericarditis.
- Further research may be needed to understand the pathogenic mechanisms and optimal treatment strategies for invasive D. hominis infections.
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