A Case of Community-Acquired Elizabethkingia meningoseptica

Cureus. 2023 Sep 13;15(9):e45183. doi: 10.7759/cureus.45183. eCollection 2023 Sep.

Abstract

Many nosocomial infections commonly arise as a result of contaminated water sources in the hospital setting, such as sinks, air-conditioning systems, ventilation devices, and catheters. Among the microorganisms found in these environments is Elizabethkingia meningoseptica, a gram-negative bacterium first discovered in 1959 by Elizabeth O. King. This bacterium is a rare cause of meningitis, pneumonia, bacteremia, and skin and soft tissue infections in hospital settings. This case report examines a unique community-acquired transmission of E. meningoseptica in a 78-year-old male patient with an extensive medical history who presented with acute fever and confusion coupled with multiple recent falls. Examination and culturing of an open wound on a dry blister of the left lower extremity revealed the presence of E. meningoseptica.

Keywords: bacteremia; cellulitis; community acquired; elizabethkingia meningoseptica; immunocompromised.

Publication types

  • Case Reports