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Published on: March 15, 2024
A rare case of Streptococcus pneumoniae infection in a giant pancreatic pseudocyst
Monika Sinha1, Priyam Batra1, Amarinder Singh Malhi2
1Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.
Background:
Pancreatic pseudocysts are known sequelae of acute and chronic pancreatitis and are typically sterile. Superinfection is not uncommon, but isolation of Streptococcus pneumoniae is exceedingly rare.
Case Presentation:
We report a 32-year-old immunocompetent male with a background of chronic alcohol-related pancreatitis presenting with worsening abdominal pain and early satiety. Imaging revealed a large pseudocyst. Laparoscopic transgastric cystogastrostomy with cholecystectomy was performed, and culture of aspirated cyst fluid yielded Streptococcus pneumoniae. The patient recovered uneventfully on targeted antibiotic therapy.
Conclusion:
This case illustrates the importance of microbiological evaluation of pseudocyst fluid and highlights an unusual presentation of S. pneumoniae superinfection in a pancreatic pseudocyst.
Insights
Superinfection of pancreatic pseudocysts with Streptococcus pneumoniae is rare. This case highlights the importance of fluid evaluation and targeted antibiotics for successful treatment of this unusual bacterial infection.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Management
Background:
- Pancreatic pseudocysts are common complications of pancreatitis, usually sterile.
- Superinfections can occur, but Streptococcus pneumoniae is an exceptionally rare causative agent.
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