Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 29, 2026

Imaging InlC Secretion to Investigate Cellular Infection by the Bacterial Pathogen Listeria monocytogenes
Published on: September 19, 2013
Listeria monocytogenes Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis in a Patient With Decompensated Cirrhosis
Leen M Ahmed1,2, Sara M Farah2,1, Layan Alali1,2
1Faculty of Medicine, Hashemite University, Zarqa, JOR.
Abstract:
A 54-year-old man with decompensated alcohol-related cirrhosis presented with worsening abdominal pain, recurrent ascites, and acute kidney injury on chronic kidney disease. Initial diagnostic paracentesis showed a polymorphonuclear (PMN) count of 75 cells/μL, which lowered suspicion for spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP). However, ascitic fluid culture subsequently isolated Listeria monocytogenes, a rare cause of SBP that is intrinsically resistant to third-generation cephalosporins. Empiric ceftriaxone would not provide reliable coverage. Therapy was escalated to high-dose intravenous ampicillin, with subsequent transition to oral trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole to complete therapy, together with large-volume paracentesis, albumin supplementation, and supportive management of hepatorenal dysfunction. The patient improved clinically and biochemically and was discharged in stable condition. This case underscores the need to consider Listeria in cirrhotic patients who fail to respond to standard cephalosporin-based therapy and to promptly tailor antibiotics to culture results to optimize outcomes.
Insights
Listeria monocytogenes is a rare cause of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) in cirrhosis patients. Prompt antibiotic tailoring to culture results, beyond standard cephalosporins, is crucial for effective treatment and improved outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Nephrology
Background:
- Cirrhosis patients are prone to spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP).
- Standard SBP treatment involves third-generation cephalosporins.
- Listeria monocytogenes is a rare but resistant SBP pathogen.
Related Concept Videos
Spontaneity
Peritoneal Dialysis II: Peritoneal Dialysis Systems and Complications
Spontaneous and Induced Mutations
Peritoneal Dialysis I: Introduction and Procedure
Bacterial Transformation
Griffith made an unexpected discovery when he killed the pathogenic strain and mixed its remains with the live, non-pathogenic strain. Not only did the mixture kill host mice, but it also contained living pathogenic bacteria that...
Bacterial Signaling

