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Pulmonary abscess due to Corynebacterium striatum
J H Batson1, R Mukkamala, R P Byrd
1Division of Pulmonary Medicine, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, TN, USA.
Journal of the Tennessee Medical Association
|April 1, 1996
Summary
Non-diphtheria corynebacteria, usually harmless skin bacteria, are emerging as pathogens. This case highlights Corynebacterium striatum causing a rare lung abscess in a diabetic patient.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Non-diphtheria corynebacteria are typically commensals of human skin and mucous membranes.
- These bacteria are increasingly recognized as opportunistic pathogens, particularly in immunocompromised individuals or those with indwelling devices.
Observation:
- Pleuropulmonary infections caused by Corynebacterium striatum are uncommon.
- A patient with diabetes mellitus presented with symptoms suggestive of a respiratory infection.
Findings:
- Corynebacterium striatum was identified as the causative agent of an intrapulmonary abscess.
- This represents a rare instance of invasive infection by this organism.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential pathogenicity of non-diphtheria corynebacteria, including Corynebacterium striatum.
- Underscores the importance of considering these organisms in the differential diagnosis of infections in patients with risk factors like diabetes mellitus.
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