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Eikenella corrodens: an unexpected pathogen causing a persistent peritonsillar abscess
1Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Virginia 23708.
Abstract:
Eikenella corrodens is a known pathogen in head and neck infections, especially in wounds related to oral cavity contamination. It is uniformly resistant to clindamycin. It is frequently an indolent infectious process, and patients often have persistent or recurrent symptoms despite several weeks of what many would feel would be appropriate antibiotic therapy. A high index of suspicion is necessary to make the correct diagnosis, and culture and sensitivity results are paramount to confirm the diagnosis. Appropriate antibiotic therapy with penicillin, ampicillin, select cephalosporins, to the augumented penicillins is the treatment of choice in most cases, with surgical drainage of abscess cavities and/or debridement of nonviable tissue reserved for appropriate cases and indications.
Insights
Eikenella corrodens causes persistent head and neck infections, particularly in oral contamination wounds. Effective treatment involves specific antibiotics like penicillin and surgical intervention when necessary.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Head and Neck Surgery
Background:
- Eikenella corrodens is a significant pathogen in head and neck infections.
- These infections are often associated with oral cavity contamination and wounds.
Observation:
- Eikenella corrodens exhibits uniform resistance to clindamycin.
- Infections are frequently indolent, leading to persistent or recurrent symptoms despite standard antibiotic courses.
Findings:
- A high index of suspicion is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- Culture and sensitivity testing are essential for confirming Eikenella corrodens infections.
- Recommended treatments include penicillin, ampicillin, select cephalosporins, and augmented penicillins.
Implications:
- Prompt and accurate diagnosis is vital for effective management.
- Tailored antibiotic therapy based on sensitivity results is key.
- Surgical intervention, including drainage and debridement, is indicated for specific cases.