Aeromonas hydrophilia infections after penetrating foot trauma.
The bacterium Aeromonas hydrophila is an anaerobic gram-negative bacillus commonly found in natural bodies of water and can cause infection in patients who suffer water-associated trauma or in immunocompromised hosts. The authors present 5 cases of penetrating wound trauma that did not involve any aquatic environment and developed rapidly forming infections. All patients presented with severe pain, cellulitis, ascending lymphangitis, fever, and pain on range of motion of the joint near the traumatic site. Presentation of clinical symptoms mimicked that of a septic joint or of severe streptococcal infection. All patients required surgical incision and drainage, intravenous and oral antibiotics using levofloxacin or bactrim, and local wound care. Results from cultures taken intraoperatively showed only A hydrophilia in every case. Resolution of symptoms occurred rapidly after surgery, and clinical resolution was seen within 72 hours. Each patient healed uneventfully and returned to preinjury status.
Larka
Ulla-Britt
UB
Harris County Podiatric Surgical Residency and Fellowship Programs, Greater Texas Education Foundation, West Houston Medical Center, Houston, TX 77058, USA.
Ulett
Dane
D
Garrison
Thomas
T
Rockett
Matthew S
MS
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000333:Aeromonas / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D001170:Arthritis, Infectious / Q000175:diagnosis; D002648:Child; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004322:Drainage; D024841:Fluoroquinolones / Q000627:therapeutic use; D018409:Foot Injuries / Q000150:complications / Q000382:microbiology*; D016905:Gram-Negative Bacterial Infections / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D014950:Wounds, Penetrating / Q000150:complications / Q000382:microbiology*
D024841:Fluoroquinolones