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[Bacteremia and recurrent arthritis caused by Streptococcus pyogenes in a heroin addict with AIDS]
J Santos1, A Fernández, C Arana
1Unidad de Infecciosos, Hospital Virgen de la Victoria, Málaga.
Background:
Streptococcus pyogenes is a bacteria which, at present, is seldom isolated in blood and articular fluid. An intravenous drug addict with human immunodeficiency virus infection, with bacteremia and arthritis by S. pyogenes, associated with tuberculosis is presented.
Methods:
Blood and articular fluid cultures were collected in the usual and Löwenstein-Jensen media.
Results:
The patient improved with penicillin and tuberculostatic drugs. Nine months after this episode, the patient reinitiated intravenous drug addiction, and developed another presentation of bacteremia and arthritis by S. pyogenes.
Conclusions:
Heroin addict patients constitute a risk group for bacteremias ans severe infections by S. pyogenes.
Insights
Intravenous drug users with HIV are at high risk for severe Streptococcus pyogenes infections, including bacteremia and arthritis. Treatment with penicillin and anti-tuberculosis drugs was effective, but relapse occurred upon resuming drug use.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Streptococcus pyogenes is rarely found in blood or joint fluid.
- A case involving an intravenous drug user with HIV, tuberculosis, and S. pyogenes bacteremia/arthritis is detailed.
Observation:
- Blood and joint fluid cultures were obtained.
- The patient initially responded to penicillin and tuberculostatic medications.
Findings:
- Recurrent S. pyogenes bacteremia and arthritis occurred after the patient resumed intravenous drug use.
- This highlights the link between intravenous drug addiction and severe S. pyogenes infections.
Implications:
- Heroin addiction is a significant risk factor for invasive S. pyogenes infections.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial, alongside addressing underlying substance abuse.