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[Moraxella osloensis as pathogen in septicemia (author's transl)]
Abstract:
A case of septicemia caused by Moraxella osloensis is described. A 4-year old girl fell ill with symptoms similar to those described in cases of septicemia caused by Neisseria meningitidis. Two days after the commencement of treatment with penicillins, however, Moraxella osloensis could be isolated from cerebral fluid, which contained only a small number of cells. It is assumed that the delayed recovery of the child was directly related to the diminished susceptibility of this Moraxella strain to penicillins. Since Moraxella strains may be resistant to these antibiotics, it is necessary to distinguish between Moraxella and N. meningitidis by means of laboratory tests. The symptoms elicited by Moraxella are similar to those in septicaemia caused by N. meningitidis, but are considerably milder in character.
Insights
A case of septicemia caused by Moraxella osloensis in a child presented with symptoms mimicking Neisseria meningitidis. This Moraxella strain showed reduced susceptibility to penicillin, highlighting the need for laboratory differentiation.
Area of Science:
- Medical microbiology
- Infectious diseases
Background:
- Septicemia is a serious bloodstream infection.
- Neisseria meningitidis is a common cause of bacterial meningitis and septicemia.
- Moraxella osloensis is a less common bacterium that can cause opportunistic infections.
Observation:
- A 4-year-old girl presented with symptoms suggestive of septicemia.
- Initial treatment with penicillins was administered.
- Moraxella osloensis was isolated from cerebrospinal fluid despite treatment, indicating potential antibiotic resistance.
Findings:
- The isolated Moraxella osloensis strain exhibited diminished susceptibility to penicillins.
- Delayed recovery in the patient was attributed to the antibiotic resistance of the bacterium.
- Symptoms caused by Moraxella osloensis septicemia were similar to, but milder than, those of Neisseria meningitidis.
Implications:
- Accurate laboratory identification distinguishing Moraxella from Neisseria is crucial for effective treatment.
- The potential for penicillin resistance in Moraxella strains necessitates careful antibiotic selection.
- Understanding the clinical presentation of Moraxella osloensis infections is important for pediatric infectious disease management.