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Aeromonas peritonitis
P Muñoz1, V Fernández-Baca, T Peláez
1Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hospital General Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain.
Abstract:
Five new cases of peritonitis caused by Aeromonas species are reported, and 29 others described in the literature are reviewed. Males predominated (71%), and the mean age was 56.9 years. Acquisition was nosocomial in 20% of the cases. All patients except one (3%) had significant underlying diseases; 73% had chronic hepatic disease, 15% had chronic renal failure (treated with chronic ambulatory peritoneal dialysis [CAPD]), and 9% had an intestinal perforation. Symptoms were similar to those of peritonitis caused by other pathogens, with the exception of diarrhea, which occurred in 25% of cases. Blood cultures were positive in 74% of the cases. The species isolated were Aeromonas hydrophila (27), Aeromonas sobria (5), and Aeromonas caviae (2). The overall case-fatality rate was 57%. Three strains were resistant to cotrimoxazole. Aeromonas species should be taken into account as a cause of peritonitis in patients with cirrhosis or who are undergoing CAPD.
Insights
Aeromonas species can cause peritonitis, especially in patients with chronic liver disease or undergoing chronic ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). This infection has a high fatality rate, highlighting the need for clinical consideration.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Peritonitis is a serious infection, often associated with specific patient populations.
- Aeromonas species are increasingly recognized as potential pathogens in various infections.