Pancreatic abscess with Haemophilus influenzae and Eikenella corrodens
JAMA
|November 1, 1976
Abstract:
An infected pancreatic pseudocyst was caused in part by Haemophilus influenzae and Eikenella corrodens. To my knowledge, neither organism has been isolated previously from pancreatic abscesses. I believe that the infecting bacteria originated in the oropharynx and descended through the duodenum.
Insights
This study identified Haemophilus influenzae and Eikenella corrodens as causative agents in an infected pancreatic pseudocyst, a novel finding in pancreatic abscess cases. The bacteria likely originated from the oropharynx and traveled to the pancreas via the duodenum.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Pancreatic pseudocysts are fluid collections that can become infected, leading to serious complications like abscesses.
- The microbial etiology of pancreatic abscesses is often polymicrobial, but specific bacterial species can be challenging to identify.
- Previous literature has not reported Haemophilus influenzae or Eikenella corrodens in the context of pancreatic abscesses.
Observation:
- A case of infected pancreatic pseudocyst was analyzed.
- The primary causative organisms identified were Haemophilus influenzae and Eikenella corrodens.
Findings:
- This is the first reported instance of Haemophilus influenzae and Eikenella corrodens being isolated from a pancreatic abscess.
- The study hypothesizes that the oropharynx served as the origin for these bacteria.
- The proposed route of infection is the descent of bacteria through the duodenum to the pancreas.
Implications:
- This finding expands the known spectrum of pathogens implicated in pancreatic abscesses.
- It suggests a potential oropharyngeal source for certain pancreatic infections, necessitating further investigation.
- Understanding the bacterial origin can inform diagnostic approaches and treatment strategies for pancreatic abscesses.
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