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Septicemia due to Corynebacterium haemolyticum
Israel Journal of Medical Sciences
|May 1, 1984
Summary
A rare Corynebacterium haemolyticum infection caused sepsis and confusion in a 65-year-old man. Prompt penicillin treatment led to recovery, highlighting CNS involvement in this unusual bacterial sepsis case.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Neurology
Background:
- Corynebacterium haemolyticum is a rare cause of human infection, typically associated with pharyngitis and rash.
- Central nervous system (CNS) involvement in C. haemolyticum infections is exceptionally uncommon.
Observation:
- A 65-year-old male presented with sepsis and mental confusion.
- Blood cultures yielded Corynebacterium haemolyticum.
- Cerebrospinal fluid and urine samples showed C. haemolyticum antigen.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited a significant rise in immunofluorescent antibodies against C. haemolyticum.
- C. haemolyticum was confirmed as the causative agent of sepsis and CNS involvement.
- Intravenous penicillin therapy (20 MU/day) resulted in complete patient recovery.
Implications:
- This case represents the third reported instance of human C. haemolyticum infection with CNS involvement.
- It underscores the potential for C. haemolyticum to cause severe systemic disease, including neurological complications.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes in C. haemolyticum sepsis.