Hemophilus influenzae pharyngitis and cellulitis in adults

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Bacteriology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Hemophilus influenzae infections are increasingly prevalent in adults.
• These infections are frequently overlooked in adults by primary care physicians.
• Prompt recognition and treatment are essential for managing H. influenzae.

Observation:

• Two case reports detail H. influenzae infections presenting as pharyngitis and neck cellulitis.
• H. influenzae was successfully cultured from blood samples in both cases.
• Infections can manifest in various sites beyond the throat and skin.

Findings:

• No specific physical signs are pathognomonic for H. influenzae.
• The potential presence of H. influenzae should guide empirical antibiotic choices.
• Newer cephalosporins, including cefamandole and cefoxitin, demonstrate efficacy.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider H. influenzae in adult infections, even when unexpected.
• Antibiotic selection should anticipate H. influenzae while awaiting culture results.
• Cefamandole and cefoxitin represent promising therapeutic options for H. influenzae infections in adults.