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Non-Invasive Model of Neuropathogenic Escherichia coli Infection in the Neonatal Rat
Published on: October 29, 2014
Plesiomonas (Aeromonas) shigelloides septicemia and meningitis in a neonate
Southern Medical Journal
|March 1, 1980
Abstract:
Serious Plesiomonas (Aeromonas) shigelloides infections have rarely been reported, and have probably been missed because this organism is very similar to the Enterobacteriaceae in associated clinical disease, and in properties investigated in the diagnostic laboratory. A case of overwhelming neonatal meningitis and sepsis is discussed, and the use of the simple indophenol oxidase test on laboratory isolates of gram-negative rods is urged to distinguish this organism and its close relatives from the Enterobacteriaceae.
Insights
Serious Plesiomonas (Aeromonas) shigelloides infections are rare and often missed due to similarity with Enterobacteriaceae. The indophenol oxidase test can help distinguish these gram-negative rods in diagnostic labs.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Clinical Diagnostics
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Plesiomonas (Aeromonas) shigelloides infections are infrequently reported in clinical settings.
- This bacterium shares clinical and laboratory similarities with Enterobacteriaceae, potentially leading to misidentification.
- Distinguishing P. (A.) shigelloides from Enterobacteriaceae is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Observation:
- A severe case of neonatal meningitis and sepsis caused by P. (A.) shigelloides is presented.
- The clinical presentation mimicked infections typically caused by Enterobacteriaceae.
- Laboratory analysis highlighted the challenges in differentiating this pathogen.
Findings:
- P. (A.) shigelloides infections can lead to severe, life-threatening conditions, particularly in neonates.
- Standard diagnostic methods may not readily distinguish P. (A.) shigelloides from more common Enterobacteriaceae.
- The indophenol oxidase test is a simple yet effective method for differentiating P. (A.) shigelloides.
Implications:
- Increased awareness and utilization of the indophenol oxidase test can improve the diagnosis of P. (A.) shigelloides infections.
- Accurate identification of P. (A.) shigelloides is essential for appropriate antimicrobial therapy and patient management.
- This finding contributes to understanding rare bacterial pathogens and refining diagnostic strategies.
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