Work

A Rare Presentation of Invasive Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae With Systemic Involvement: A Case Report

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Haemophilus influenzae ( H. influenzae ) is a common organism that causes noninvasive infections in the respiratory tract. Lately, there has been an increasing incidence of invasive diseases with nontypeable strains not covered by Hib vaccines. We discuss a case of a middle‐aged male with sickle cell trait and gout who presented with altered mentation and polyarthralgia. On investigations, he had H. influenzae bacteremia on two sets of blood cultures with dissemination to meninges and joints, causing acute encephalopathy and polyarthralgia. The initial results of arthrocentesis and lumbar puncture were sterile. However, PCR analysis of the fluid revealed nontypeable H. influenzae. The patient required mechanical ventilation and vasopressor support given sepsis but recovered after extended antibiotics and multiple surgical debridements. Our case highlights the importance of maintaining a high suspicion of invasive disease in decompensated patients and the role of advanced diagnostics in treatment and outcome.

Source: Case Reports in Infectious Diseases

DOI: 10.1155/crdi/1817056

Authors: Hajra Nosheen, Lochan Bellamkonda, John George Youssef, Abhijeet Ghatol, Shagufta Naz Ali

Institutions: McLaren Regional Medical Center, McLaren Health Care

Language: English

Topic: Bacterial Infections and Vaccines

Subfield: Microbiology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $790