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World Journal of Clinical Cases Jun 2024This case series investigated the clinical manifestations, diagnoses, and treatment of cerebral abscesses caused by . We retrospectively analyzed the clinical...
BACKGROUND
This case series investigated the clinical manifestations, diagnoses, and treatment of cerebral abscesses caused by . We retrospectively analyzed the clinical characteristics and outcomes of three cases of cerebral abscesses caused by and conducted a comprehensive review of relevant literature.
CASE SUMMARY
Case 1 presented with a history of left otitis media and exhibited high fever, confusion, and vomiting as primary symptoms. Postoperative pus culture indicated a brain abscess caused by infection. Case 2 experienced dizziness for two days as the primary symptom. Postoperative pus culture suggested an intermediate streptococcal brain abscess. Case 3: Enhanced head magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and diffusion-weighted imaging revealed occupancy of the left temporal lobe, initially suspected to be a metastatic tumor. However, a postoperative pus culture confirmed the presence of a brain abscess caused by infection. The three cases presented in this case series were all patients with community-acquired brain abscesses resulting from angina caused by Streptococcus group infection. All three patients demonstrated sensitivity to penicillin, ceftriaxone, vancomycin, linezolid, chloramphenicol, and levofloxacin. Successful treatment was achieved through stereotaxic puncture, drainage, and ceftriaxone administration with a six -week course of antibiotics.
CONCLUSION
Preoperative enhanced head MRI plays a critical role in distinguishing brain tumors from abscesses. Selecting the correct early diagnostic methods for brain abscesses and providing timely intervention are very important. This case series was in accordance with the CARE guidelines.
PubMed: 38898852
DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v12.i17.3243 -
BMC Infectious Diseases Jun 2024Cutibacterium acnes is an anaerobic bacterium mostly implicated in cutaneous and body-implant infections. Splenic abscess is a rare entity and C. acnes abscesses have...
BACKGROUND
Cutibacterium acnes is an anaerobic bacterium mostly implicated in cutaneous and body-implant infections. Splenic abscess is a rare entity and C. acnes abscesses have only exceptionally been reported. We describe a spontaneous splenic C. acnes abscess in an immunocompetent man with no predisposing factors or identified portal of entry. His isolates were subjected to single-locus sequence typing (SLST) to explore their genetic relatedness and better understand this rare infection.
CASE PRESENTATION
A splenic abscess was diagnosed on a computed-tomography scan in a 74-year-old man with chronic abdominal pain. No risk factor was identified. Abscess-drained pus and post-drainage blood cultures grew C. acnes. SLST of abscess and blood isolates showed that they belonged to the same C. acnes SLST type C1 found in normal skin and rarely in inflammatory skin disease. Specific virulence factors could not be identified.
CONCLUSION
C. acnes abscesses are extremely rare and can develop in immunocompetent patients without an identifiable portal of entry. Molecular typing of clinical isolates can help confirm infection (versus contamination) and enables genetic background comparisons. Further research is needed to understand C. acnes tropism and virulence.
Topics: Humans; Male; Aged; Bacteremia; Splenic Diseases; Gram-Positive Bacterial Infections; Abscess; Phylogeny; Immunocompetence; Tomography, X-Ray Computed
PubMed: 38898385
DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09467-x -
Clinical Medicine Insights. Case Reports 2024Intracranial empyema is a rare but serious and life-threatening infection. It is an accumulation of purulent material in the subdural or extradural space leading to...
INTRODUCTION
Intracranial empyema is a rare but serious and life-threatening infection. It is an accumulation of purulent material in the subdural or extradural space leading to development of subdural empyema or intracranial epidural abscess, respectively. The incidence of morbidity and mortality is high because the diagnosis is often unsuspected. Infections of dental origin could be responsible for such condition.
CASE REPORTS
A 22-year-old female and 30-year-old male patients, both with no significant medical history, presented with subdural empyema and intracranial epidural abscess, respectively, both complicating pan-sinusitis of dental origin. Successful outcomes were achieved with surgical drainage of the lesions, antibiotic therapy, and extraction of affected teeth. Female patient underwent further management for neurological sequelae, while male patient was discharged without neurological complications.
DISCUSSION
Intracranial suppuration of odontogenic origin is an uncommon but extremely serious complication. The most common dental origins are caries with periapical involvement and periodontitis. Wisdom tooth extraction is the most common preceding dental procedure for this infection. A multidisciplinary approach is essential for the identification and treatment of suspected oral sources. Antibiotic therapy with surgical approach is the gold standard treatment.
CONCLUSION
This sequel to odontogenic infection is quite rare, but it can be prevented by a good oral hygiene and removal of abscessed teeth.
PubMed: 38895741
DOI: 10.1177/11795476241261883 -
Nutrients Jun 2024This study explores the relationship between dietary habits, environmental influences, and gut microbiome composition in individuals with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS),...
This study explores the relationship between dietary habits, environmental influences, and gut microbiome composition in individuals with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a chronic inflammatory skin condition. A cohort of 80 participants, equally divided into HS patients and healthy controls, was assessed through comprehensive questionnaires capturing demographics, dietary habits, and other health-related information. Fecal samples were collected and analyzed using next-generation sequencing to examine microbiome composition. Despite previous studies suggesting gut dysbiosis in HS, this research found no significant differences in alpha-diversity and Shannon diversity index between the groups. However, significant disparities in dietary habits were observed, with HS patients showing higher sugar and milk consumption. The study also identified a significant correlation between coffee consumption and the presence of certain bacterial genera. While the study did not reveal major differences in microbiome diversity, the findings on dietary habits and specific microbiome components suggest potential targets for therapeutic intervention. These results underscore the importance of further research into the gut-skin axis and its role in HS, aiming to enhance management strategies through dietary modifications and lifestyle interventions.
Topics: Humans; Gastrointestinal Microbiome; Male; Female; Hidradenitis Suppurativa; Adult; Feeding Behavior; Feces; Middle Aged; Diet; Dysbiosis; Bacteria; Case-Control Studies; Young Adult; Surveys and Questionnaires
PubMed: 38892709
DOI: 10.3390/nu16111776 -
The Israel Medical Association Journal... Jun 2024Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic relapsing inflammatory skin disease associated with a heavy burden of morbidity and cost.
BACKGROUND
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic relapsing inflammatory skin disease associated with a heavy burden of morbidity and cost.
OBJECTIVES
To provide standardized estimates of trends in HS incidence and prevalence among patients in Israel between 2016 and 2019.
METHODS
We conducted a population-based analysis of routinely collected electronic health records data from Clalit Health Services, the largest nationwide public health service provider in Israel. Age- and sex-adjusted rates were reported by using the standard European population as a reference.
RESULTS
The study included 3488 HS incident cases. The mean ± SD age of onset was 30.3 years and was similar in males and females. HS was more common among Jews with low and medium socioeconomic status. The annual HS incidence rate increased throughout the study period. HS prevalence increased from 0.12% in 2016 to 0.17% in 2019.
CONCLUSIONS
HS prevalence and incidence rates steadily rose among the Israeli population between 2016 and 2019. Awareness of these findings can help provide an optimal allocation of healthcare resources by policymakers and health service providers and prevent delays in diagnosis.
Topics: Humans; Israel; Hidradenitis Suppurativa; Male; Incidence; Female; Prevalence; Adult; Middle Aged; Young Adult; Adolescent; Jews; Child; Aged
PubMed: 38884313
DOI: No ID Found -
Cureus May 2024A spinal epidural abscess is a rare condition characterized by the accumulation of pus between the dura mater and vertebral column, often caused by hematogenous spread...
A spinal epidural abscess is a rare condition characterized by the accumulation of pus between the dura mater and vertebral column, often caused by hematogenous spread from a distant site or local spread from infection in nearby structures. The abscess leads to compression of the spinal cord and can result in neurological damage, including dysfunction or permanent neurological deficits. Treatment of spinal epidural abscesses should not be delayed and requires a combination of decompression by surgical drainage and antibiotic therapy. The authors present a rare case in which a spinal epidural abscess developed from a hospital-acquired pressure ulcer, further complicated by bacteremia.
PubMed: 38882974
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.60379 -
Journal of Pharmacy & Bioallied Sciences Apr 2024Septic pulmonary embolism (SPE) represents the occurrence of septic thrombi in circulation, originating from an extrapulmonary infectious source. Perianal and perirectal...
Septic pulmonary embolism (SPE) represents the occurrence of septic thrombi in circulation, originating from an extrapulmonary infectious source. Perianal and perirectal abscesses are frequently encountered anorectal issues, often stemming from obstructed anal crypt glands, resulting in pus accumulation within the subcutaneous tissue and intersphincteric plane. Timely surgical drainage is essential upon diagnosis of anorectal abscesses. Adult males exhibit a twofold higher incidence of anorectal abscesses and fistulae compared to females, with common symptoms including excruciating anal or rectal pain. This case report details the presentation and management of a 42-year-old male patient afflicted by perianal abscesses that led to SPE. The report underscores the importance of recognizing and treating anorectal abscesses promptly to avert potentially life-threatening complications such as sepsis and fistulae.
PubMed: 38882749
DOI: 10.4103/jpbs.jpbs_1091_23 -
The American Journal of Case Reports Jun 2024BACKGROUND Compression of the vagus nerve by a pharyngeal mass is a well-documented condition that can result in sinus node dysfunction (SND). However, there is scarce...
BACKGROUND Compression of the vagus nerve by a pharyngeal mass is a well-documented condition that can result in sinus node dysfunction (SND). However, there is scarce literature on extrinsic vagal nerve compression from a tonsillar abscess. CASE REPORT A 59-year-old woman with a history of asthma and chronic throat discomfort presented to the Emergency Department with bradycardia, palpitations, and voice changes. Following a shellfish allergy hospitalization, an otolaryngology evaluation revealed an enlarged right tonsil, recommending tonsillectomy, but scheduling challenges persisted. The patient reported mild throat pain, dysphagia, hoarseness, rhinorrhea, and exertional dyspnea and was admitted for the evaluation of peritonsillar mass. She was found to be bradycardic with a heart rate of 47, with an electrocardiogram revealing SND. Albuterol and ipratropium nebulizers, as well as dexamethasone and pantoprazole, were initiated. With this treatment, the patient symptomatically improved with a new heart rate of 68. She was discharged with outpatient appointments, but was unfortunately lost to follow-up. CONCLUSIONS This case reveals sinus node dysfunction resulting from extrinsic vagal nerve compression by a tonsillar abscess. Pressure on the vagus nerve can trigger bradycardia and low blood pressure, possibly due to compensatory overfiring of afferent vagal nerve signals from local mass effect. Early recognition and antibiotic treatment are essential to prevent cardiac complications. Clinicians must remain vigilant for such extrinsic causes, particularly in patients with chronic sore throat and cardiac symptoms. Further research and case reports are needed to deepen our understanding of this rare yet significant association.
Topics: Humans; Female; Middle Aged; Sick Sinus Syndrome; Peritonsillar Abscess; Nerve Compression Syndromes; Vagus Nerve
PubMed: 38879750
DOI: 10.12659/AJCR.943944 -
Archives of Dermatological Research Jun 2024Pyoderma gangrenosum, acne, and suppurative hidradenitis (PASH) syndrome is a rare condition characterized by clinical features of all three dermatologic conditions. The...
BACKGROUND
Pyoderma gangrenosum, acne, and suppurative hidradenitis (PASH) syndrome is a rare condition characterized by clinical features of all three dermatologic conditions. The management of PASH syndrome is difficult, with no consensus on treatment guidelines. Since PASH syndrome can increase morbidity and adversely impact quality of life, better characterization of effective therapies is needed.
METHODS
A retrospective cohort study was conducted to identify all patients with pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) treated at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center between 2015 and 2021. PG diagnosis was confirmed via PARACELSUS score. Subsequent chart review identified eight patients with concomitant hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and acne who were clinically diagnosed with PASH syndrome.
RESULTS
Eight patients were clinically diagnosed with PASH syndrome based on their clinical presentation at our institution. Seven patients had failed some type of medical therapy prior to presentation, including topical corticosteroids, oral corticosteroids, oral antibiotics, and biologics. One patient had also tried surgical drainage at an outside institution. Six patients were effectively treated with biologics, usually in combination with other therapies. One patient experienced improvement of her skin lesions after diagnosis and treatment of her underlying hematologic malignancy.
CONCLUSIONS
Medical management with biologics in combination with corticosteroids and/or antibiotics was effective in the management of most patients. Diagnosis and treatment of an underlying condition should be prioritized in refractory cases. If workup is negative, surgical management may be considered. Further investigation with a greater number of patients is required to develop management guidelines for PASH syndrome.
Topics: Humans; Pyoderma Gangrenosum; Female; Retrospective Studies; Acne Vulgaris; Hidradenitis Suppurativa; Adult; Male; Anti-Bacterial Agents; Young Adult; Middle Aged; Biological Products; Treatment Outcome; Quality of Life; Syndrome; Adolescent; Adrenal Cortex Hormones
PubMed: 38878169
DOI: 10.1007/s00403-024-03125-7 -
Journal of Investigative Medicine High... 2024Nocardia pyomyositis in immunocompetent patients is a rare occurrence. The diagnosis may be missed or delayed with the risk of progressive infection and suboptimal or...
Nocardia pyomyositis in immunocompetent patients is a rare occurrence. The diagnosis may be missed or delayed with the risk of progressive infection and suboptimal or inappropriate treatment. We present the case of a 48-year-old immunocompetent firefighter diagnosed with pyomyositis caused by acquired by direct skin inoculation from gardening activity. The patient developed a painful swelling on his right forearm that rapidly progressed proximally and deeper into the underlying muscle layer. Ultrasound imaging of his right forearm showed a 7-mm subcutaneous fluid collection with surrounding edema. Microbiologic analysis of the draining pus was confirmed to be by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight (MALDI-TOF) Mass Spectrometry. After incision and drainage deep to the muscle layer to evacuate the abscess and a few ineffective antibiotic options, the patient was treated with intravenous ceftriaxone and oral linezolid for 6 weeks. He was then de-escalated to oral moxifloxacin for an additional 4 months to complete a total antibiotic treatment duration of 6 months. The wound healed satisfactorily and was completely closed by the fourth month of antibiotic therapy. Six months after discontinuation of antibiotics, the patient continued to do well with complete resolution of the infection. In this article, we discussed the risk factors for Nocardia in immunocompetent settings, the occupational risks for Nocardia in our index patient, and the challenges encountered with diagnosis and treatment. Nocardia should be included in the differential diagnosis of cutaneous infections, particularly if there is no improvement of "cellulitis" with traditional antimicrobial regimens and the infection extends into the deeper muscle tissues.
Topics: Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Nocardia Infections; Nocardia; Anti-Bacterial Agents; Pyomyositis; Gardening; Immunocompetence; Ceftriaxone; Spectrometry, Mass, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption-Ionization; Drainage; Moxifloxacin; Linezolid
PubMed: 38877708
DOI: 10.1177/23247096241261508