Tuberc Respir Dis.  2012 Sep;73(3):178-181. 10.4046/trd.2012.73.3.178.

A Case of Streptococcus suis Infection Causing Pneumonia with Empyema in Korea

• Oh YJ
• Song SH

• KMID: 1842914
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4046/trd.2012.73.3.178

Abstract

Streptococcus suis causes meningitis and sepsis in pigs, but human infection has increased over the past few years in those who are exposed to pigs or raw pork. Most cases have occurred in Southeast Asia, but only two cases have been reported in South Korea, presenting with arthritis and meningitis. Here, we report a rare case of S. suis infection, a 60-year-old sailor, who visited the emergency room presenting septicemia, pneumonia with empyema and meningitis, showed full recovery; however, neurologic sequale of severe cognitive dysfunction was present after the usage of antibiotics and percutaneous drainage. S. suis was isolated from blood and pleural fluid and the strain was susceptible to penicillin and vancomycin. Increased awareness of S. suis infection and prevention are warranted.

Keyword

Streptococcus suis; Meningitis; Pneumonia; Sepsis; Empyema

MeSH Terms

Anti-Bacterial Agents
Arthritis
Asia, Southeastern
Drainage
Emergencies
Empyema
Humans
Korea
Meningitis
Middle Aged
Military Personnel
Penicillins
Pneumonia
Republic of Korea
Sepsis
Sprains and Strains
Streptococcus
Streptococcus suis
Swine
Vancomycin
Anti-Bacterial Agents
Penicillins
Vancomycin

Figure

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  Figure 1 The initial chest X-ray shows extensive pneumonic consolidation on right upper and lower lung field.

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  Figure 2 The chest computed tomography scan demonstrated moderate consolidation in right lung with pleural effusion.

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  Figure 3 Brain computed tomography showed moderate diffuse brain atrophy.

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  Figure 4 The chest X-ray 1 month after treatment shows marked improvement of pneumonic infiltration and effusion.

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