Wohlfahrtiimonas chitiniclastica induced leg wound infection in a diabetic patient: a case report

Wohlfahrtiimonas chitiniclastica (W. chitiniclastica) is an emerging zoonotic Gram-negative pathogen. Over 40 human infections have been documented worldwide. Poor hygiene conditions and chronic wounds are recognized as high-risk factors for infection. We report a case of W. chitiniclastica infection in a patient with a sprain complicated by type 2 diabetes mellitus. Due to suboptimal glycemic control during the early hospitalization period, the wound progressed to an active infection. This case indicates that W. chitiniclastica may possess virulence capable of causing severe local and systemic infections in diabetic patients. Clinically, diagnosis should be confirmed through pathogen detection, and early intervention may reduce the occurrence of serious complications.