Melioidosis: Series of Eight Cases

Abstract

Objective: Melioidosis caused by the Gram-negative bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei is a very serious infection and has been sporadically reported from the Indian subcontinent. This disease entity can have acute and chronic presentations involving different organ systems. The purpose of this study is to analyze the risk factors, clinical presentations, therapy and outcome of culture proven cases of melioidosis.

Methods: We carried out a retrospective study of eight culture proven cases of melioidosis at a tertiary care hospital in West Bengal.

Results: In this series we have found that melioidosis presents with a variety of symptoms ranging from acute presentations in the form of fulminant septicaemia, multiple abscesses in internal organs, osteomyelitis to more chronic form of the infection masquerading as tuberculosis. Bone and joint involvement are particularly common. Diabetes mellitus and chronic alcoholism are significant risk factors.

Conclusions: India or parts of India are possibly endemic areas for melioidosis. Lack of awareness and the diversity of its presentation are probably responsible for underdiagnosis and under reporting.