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Ecthyma gangrenosum-like eruption associated with Morganella morganii infection
J Del Pozo1, J García-Silva, M Almagro
1Department of Dermatology, Complejo Hospitalario Juan Canalejo, Xubias de Arriba 84, 15006 La Coruña, Spain.
The British Journal of Dermatology
|October 10, 1998
Abstract:
Ecthyma gangrenosum is considered as a pathognomonic sign of Pseudomonas aeruginosa sepsis. Lesions similar to ecthyma gangrenosum may be caused by other organisms. We report a case of an ecthyma gangrenosum-like eruption caused by Morganella morganii, a Gram-negative bacillus.
Insights
Ecthyma gangrenosum typically indicates Pseudomonas aeruginosa sepsis. However, this case highlights Morganella morganii as a cause of similar-looking skin lesions, expanding differential diagnoses for ecthyma gangrenosum-like eruptions.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Ecthyma gangrenosum is a well-established cutaneous manifestation strongly associated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteremia and sepsis.
- While P. aeruginosa is the classic cause, other microorganisms can occasionally produce similar-appearing lesions.
Observation:
- This report details a rare case of an ecthyma gangrenosum-like skin eruption.
- The causative agent identified in this patient was Morganella morganii, a Gram-negative bacillus.
Findings:
- The clinical presentation mimicked classic ecthyma gangrenosum.
- Microbiological analysis confirmed Morganella morganii as the pathogen responsible for the observed skin lesions.
Implications:
- This case broadens the spectrum of pathogens that can cause ecthyma gangrenosum-like lesions.
- It underscores the importance of considering alternative etiologies beyond Pseudomonas aeruginosa in patients presenting with these characteristic skin findings.