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Pseudomonas putrefaciens as a cause of bacteremia in humans
Abstract:
Pseudomonas putrefaciens has been presented as an opportunistic pathogen in a few isolations from humans. This is the first documented report of a local infection of P. putrefaciens complicated by invasion of the blood stream. The organism was twice isolated from the blood culture and once from the wound exudate of a 73-year-old woman hospitalized for extensive ulcerations on the legs. Parenteral ampicillin and gentamicin together with local antiseptic treatment led to an uneventful recovery.
Insights
Pseudomonas putrefaciens, an opportunistic pathogen, caused a leg wound infection complicated by bloodstream invasion in a 73-year-old woman. This case highlights the potential severity of P. putrefaciens infections and successful treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Case Study
Background:
- Pseudomonas putrefaciens is recognized as an opportunistic pathogen with limited documented human infections.
- Previous reports have not detailed bloodstream invasion secondary to localized P. putrefaciens infections.
Observation:
- A 73-year-old female patient presented with extensive leg ulcerations.
- The patient developed a localized infection that progressed to involve the bloodstream.
Findings:
- Pseudomonas putrefaciens was identified in both wound exudate and blood cultures from the patient.
- This represents the first documented case of P. putrefaciens causing a localized infection complicated by bacteremia.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for P. putrefaciens to cause severe invasive infections in susceptible individuals.
- Prompt diagnosis and appropriate antimicrobial therapy, including ampicillin and gentamicin, alongside local wound care, are crucial for successful patient recovery.