Micrococcus Peritonitis Complicating Peritoneal Dialysis

R I Med J (2013). 2024 Feb 1;107(2):16-19.

Abstract

Peritonitis, a serious complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD), can be caused by opportunistic pathogens like Micrococcus species on rare occasions. We present a case of Micrococcus sp peritonitis in a 55-year-old female with end-stage kidney disease on continuous cycling peritoneal dialysis for one year who presented with cloudy effluent. Initial treatment against Micrococcus sp with vancomycin, gentamicin, and prophylactic oral nystatin was successful. However, one month later, the patient presented with abdominal pain and dialysate culture again grew Micrococcus sp. Treatment with vancomycin was unsuccessful in resolving culture positivity. The patient was transitioned to hemodialysis for non-medical reasons and then was later restarted on PD without further peritonitis episodes. Micrococcus sp peritonitis in PD poses treatment challenges due to limited guidelines. Intraperitoneal vancomycin is commonly used to target Micrococcus isolates although there is a high incidence of treatment failure. This case report highlights the need for continued reporting to enhance identification, prevention, and patient outcomes in Micrococcus sp peritonitis during PD.

Keywords: PD-associated peritonitis; micrococcus species; peritoneal dialysis; peritonitis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Kidney Failure, Chronic* / complications
  • Kidney Failure, Chronic* / therapy
  • Micrococcus
  • Middle Aged
  • Peritoneal Dialysis* / adverse effects
  • Peritonitis* / drug therapy
  • Peritonitis* / etiology
  • Vancomycin / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Vancomycin
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents