Streptococcus suis infection in Hong Kong

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Streptococcus suis is a zoonotic pathogen with a known geographic distribution biased towards Northern Europe and Southeast Asia.
• Occupational exposure to pigs or pork is a significant risk factor for Streptococcus suis infection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the clinical features, outcomes, and treatment of Streptococcus suis infections in Hong Kong.
• To highlight the potential for underdiagnosis of this zoonosis in regions outside its typical endemic areas.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series of 25 patients admitted to two Hong Kong hospitals between 1984 and 1993.
• Clinical data, including exposure history, symptoms, diagnostic findings (cerebrospinal fluid analysis), and treatment outcomes, were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Sixty percent of patients had occupational exposure to pigs or pork; 16% had a history of skin injury.
• Meningitis was confirmed in all patients who underwent lumbar puncture. Other presentations included arthritis, bronchopneumonia, and endocarditis.
• The fatality rate was low (4%), but 67% of survivors experienced hearing loss. All isolates were sensitive to penicillin and ampicillin.

Conclusions:

• Streptococcus suis infection can occur in Hong Kong, presenting with severe manifestations like meningitis and hearing loss.
• Prompt diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy (penicillin or ampicillin) are essential for managing Streptococcus suis infections.
• Increased awareness of this zoonosis is needed for earlier and more accurate diagnosis in diverse geographic regions.