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Updated: Jan 11, 2026

Capsular Serotyping of Streptococcus pneumoniae by Latex Agglutination
Published on: September 25, 2014
Multisite infection with Austrian syndrome caused by non-vaccine pneumococcal serotype-case report
Frederik Juel Pontoppidan Børrild1, Emil Fosbøl2, Casper Roed1,3
1Department of Pulmonary and Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, North Zealand, Denmark.
Background:
Although rare, Austrian syndrome remains a life-threatening triad consisting of pneumonia, endocarditis, and meningitis caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae.
Case Summary:
We present a case of Austrian syndrome, further complicated by spondylodiscitis and endophthalmitis, in an immunocompromised male receiving methotrexate treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. The infection was caused by a non-vaccine pneumococcal serotype (23B). Susceptibility testing showed reduced susceptibility towards benzylpenicillin, an uncommon finding in Denmark.
Conclusion:
This case illustrates some of the challenges faced in managing invasive pneumococcal disease and underlines the importance of continued awareness of this disease, particularly in immunocompromised patients.
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Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin...

