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DF-2 septicemia after splenectomy: epidemiology and immunologic response
Southern Medical Journal
|December 1, 1980
Summary
DF-2 infection in an asplenic adult caused severe illness, including septicemia and renal failure. Despite a dog bite, the patient showed no IgM response, suggesting antibodies may not prevent infection.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
- Microbiology
Background:
- DF-2, a gram-negative organism, is known to cause infections in humans, particularly in asplenic individuals.
- Splenectomy increases susceptibility to encapsulated bacteria, but DF-2 infections highlight risks from other pathogens.
Observation:
- A case of DF-2 infection in an adult with septicemia, renal failure, and purpuric lesions is detailed.
- The patient had a history of splenectomy and a recent dog bite, key risk factors for DF-2 infection.
- Immunological examination revealed a lack of IgM response and a significant IgG response to the organism.
Findings:
- The patient's immune response showed a notable IgG antibody titer.
- The patient's wife, exposed to the same dog, also had a positive serum antibody titer.
- The presence of serum antibodies did not confer protection against infection upon re-exposure.
Implications:
- This case underscores the risk of DF-2 infection in asplenic patients following animal bites.
- The findings suggest that existing antibodies may not always provide protective immunity against DF-2.
- Further research is needed to understand protective immunity and develop effective treatments for DF-2 infections.