Successful Treatment of a Case of Necrotizing Fasciitis due to Vibrio vulnificus in a Cold Climate in Japan

Intern Med. 2016;55(8):1007-10. doi: 10.2169/internalmedicine.55.5231. Epub 2016 Apr 15.

Abstract

Vibrio vulnificus infection often occurs in warm regions, frequently leading to necrotizing fasciitis, sepsis, and death. We herein report a rare case presenting in a cold climate region in northern Japan, Aomori district, of a V. vulnificus infection complicated by necrotizing fasciitis and septic shock. The patient's prior history of injury and typical clinical course were helpful clues to the diagnosis of V. vulnificus infection, and early initiation of antimicrobial treatment saved his life. V. vulnificus infection should be considered even in cold regions, particularly if patients have risk factors.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Cold Climate*
  • Fasciitis, Necrotizing / etiology*
  • Fasciitis, Necrotizing / microbiology
  • Fasciitis, Necrotizing / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Japan
  • Male
  • Risk Factors
  • Shock, Septic / etiology*
  • Vibrio Infections / complications*
  • Vibrio vulnificus

Supplementary concepts

  • Vibrio vulnificus infection