Multiple hepatic and splenic abscesses due to Burkholderia pseudomallei

Abstract

We report a case of melioidosis in an alcoholic and diabetic male patient presenting with multiple hepatic and splenic abscesses. Melioidosis is caused by an environmental bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei. The clinical manifestations vary from asymptomatic infection to fulminant septic shock with abscesses in multiple internal organs. The treatment is prolonged with parenteral antibiotics in intensive phase followed by oral antibiotics in eradication phase till disease resolution. Due to varied clinical presentations, high index of suspicion coupled with adequate laboratory support is essential for rapid diagnosis and prompt initiation of optimal antibiotic therapy.

Keywords: Burkholderia pseudomallei; Hepatic abscess; Melioidosis.