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[Invasive extrapulmonary infections due to Streptococcus pneumoniae. Report of three fatal cases and review]
Abstract:
Streptococcus pneumoniae is a most important patogen in respiratory and meningeal infections. It is also a relevant agent of septic arthritis, pericarditis, acute endocarditis and spontaneous peritonitis in cirrhotic patients with ascites. It is less well known as a cause of infections in many other sites, including abdominal organs and soft tissues, which may be very severe. In this report, we describe three fatal cases (phlegmonous gastritis, cellulitis and primary peritonitis without pre-existing ascites) due to Streptococcus pneumoniae. In the last years it has become clear that this agent can cause infections at almost any body level, which is worth remembering. We review the literature and discuss some clinical aspects of two rare infectious syndromes, like primary peritonitis without previous ascites and phlegmonous gastritis.
Insights
Streptococcus pneumoniae can cause severe infections beyond the lungs and meninges, including rare conditions like phlegmonous gastritis and primary peritonitis. This highlights the pathogen's diverse and severe infectious potential across various body sites.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Streptococcus pneumoniae is a primary cause of respiratory and meningeal infections.
- It is also recognized in septic arthritis, endocarditis, and spontaneous peritonitis in cirrhotic patients.
Observation:
- This report details three fatal cases of Streptococcus pneumoniae infections: phlegmonous gastritis, cellulitis, and primary peritonitis without ascites.
- These cases illustrate severe infections in less commonly recognized sites.
Findings:
- Streptococcus pneumoniae can cause severe, life-threatening infections in diverse body locations, including abdominal organs and soft tissues.
- The study reviews literature on primary peritonitis without ascites and phlegmonous gastritis, emphasizing their rarity and severity.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider Streptococcus pneumoniae as a potential cause of severe infections in unusual sites.
- Awareness of this pathogen's broad infectious spectrum is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.