Successful Treatment of a Case of Necrotizing Fasciitis due to <i>Vibrio vulnificus</i> in a Cold Climate in Japan

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.

Vibrio vulnificus necrotizing fasciitis with sepsis presenting with pain in the lower legs in winter: a case report

“…Although it is relatively unusual, there have been previous reports of cases in cold Fig. 2 Twelve hours after admission: Bullae and erythematous plaque in both lower legs climates [7]; thus, we should pay attention to this disease even in winter.…”

“…V. vulnificus infections are common in warm climates, but our case occurred in winter. Although it is relatively unusual, there have been previous reports of cases in cold climates [ 7 ]; thus, we should pay attention to this disease even in winter.…”

Biochemical characterization of a catalase from Vibrio vulnificus, a pathogen that causes gastroenteritis

“…Vibrio vulnificus is a Gram-negative marine bacterium that grows in warm water and low salinity in coastal regions (Kitamura et al, 2016;Motes et al, 1998); it survives in a planktonic form associated with the mucosal surfaces of aquatic animals (Oliver, 2015;Pajuelo et al, 2016). Wound infection or oral infection result from exposure to seawater or from the handling of shellfish contaminated with V. vulnificus, generally causing mild gastroenteritis with diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain (Chung et al, 2016;Strom & Paranjpye, 2000).…”