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Corynebacterium group D2 urinary tract infection
R G Stewart1, V Nowbath, M Carmichael
1SAIMR Laboratory, Coronation Hospital, Johannesburg.
Summary
A multiply resistant Corynebacterium D2 was isolated from a patient's urine in South Africa. This finding highlights the need for effective antibiotic strategies against emerging urinary tract infections.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be caused by various bacteria, including Corynebacterium species.
- Antibiotic resistance is a growing global health concern, complicating UTI treatment.
- Corynebacterium group D2 is an emerging pathogen implicated in UTIs and alkaline-encrusted cystitis.
Observation:
- An unusual, multiply resistant Corynebacterium was isolated from the urine of a comatose patient.
- The isolate demonstrated resistance to numerous antibiotics, including beta-lactams, aminoglycosides, and fluoroquinolones.
- Susceptibility was noted only to ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, norfloxacin, vancomycin, and fucidin.
Findings:
- The organism was identified as Corynebacterium group D2, marking the first reported isolate in South Africa.
- This case represents a significant challenge due to the extensive antibiotic resistance profile observed.
- The patient's clinical presentation and the organism's resistance patterns are detailed.
Implications:
- This discovery underscores the importance of antimicrobial susceptibility testing for guiding UTI treatment.
- The emergence of resistant Corynebacterium D2 necessitates updated treatment guidelines and surveillance in South Africa.
- Further research into the epidemiology and treatment of Corynebacterium D2 UTIs is warranted.