An Unusual Case of Perirenal Abscess Caused by Campylobacter and Peptostreptococcus Species

Abstract

Intra-abdominal abscesses mostly derive from the intra-abdominal viscera. Campylobacter spp. are Gram-negative rods which are known to cause oral infections but rarely have been documented to cause extra-intestinal infections resulting in abscesses. We report an atypical case of Campylobacter rectus (C. rectus) and Peptostreptococcus spp. bacteria isolated from a perinephric abscess presenting as abdominal pain. Abscesses originating from outside the gastrointestinal tract have been reported in other similar case reports infecting the head, brain, and thoracic wall amongst others. The potential source and development of such a Campylobacter infection could be due to multiple hypotheses. This is a first case report of perinephric abscess development. Studies have suggested person-to-person (fecal-oral) transmission along with insects serving as primary reservoirs. Seeding of bacteria through infections in the oral cavity or through infections in the bowel microperforations has also been considered as plausible reasons. Since C. rectus has been isolated in such rare instances, it should be kept in mind when considering differential diagnosis of potential causative agents for extra-oral infections such as invasive abscess formations.

Oral microbiota and oral squamous cell carcinoma: a review of their relation and carcinogenic mechanisms

“…Anaerobic bacteria of the Peptostreptococcus species are distinguished by their Gram-positive cocci form. It has also been discovered that these species are a typical component of the oral cavity’s flora ( 55 ).…”

Prevalence and genetic characterization of Campylobacter from clinical poultry cases in China

“…Campylobacter is an important zoonotic pathogen and is often considered to be one of the leading causes of bacterial foodborne illness globally ( 1 – 3 ). They are microaerophilic and grow under microaerobic conditions (10% CO 2 , 5% O 2 ) at 42°C ( 4 ). Campylobacter can cause gastrointestinal infections with symptoms of inflammatory, bloody diarrhea or dysentery syndromes, mostly consisting of cramps, fever, and pain.…”

“…For example, Campylobacter infections are associated with abortion in primates and ruminants by invading the genital tract ( 3 , 16 ). Meanwhile, Hasel et al observed the heavy colonization of Campylobacter in human kidney abscesses ( 4 ). Other studies have also found Campylobacter in abscess infections of the head, brain, and chest walls ( 4 , 17 , 18 ).…”

“…Meanwhile, Hasel et al observed the heavy colonization of Campylobacter in human kidney abscesses ( 4 ). Other studies have also found Campylobacter in abscess infections of the head, brain, and chest walls ( 4 , 17 , 18 ).…”