Campylobacter fetus Invasive Infections and Risks for Death, France, 2000-2021

Abstract

Campylobacter fetus accounts for 1% of Campylobacter spp. infections, but prevalence of bacteremia and risk for death are high. To determine clinical features of C. fetus infections and risks for death, we conducted a retrospective observational study of all adult inpatients with a confirmed C. fetus infection in Nord Franche-Comté Hospital, Trevenans, France, during January 2000-December 2021. Among 991 patients with isolated Campylobacter spp. strains, we identified 39 (4%) with culture-positive C. fetus infections, of which 33 had complete records and underwent further analysis; 21 had documented bacteremia and 12 did not. Secondary localizations were reported for 7 (33%) patients with C. fetus bacteremia, of which 5 exhibited a predilection for vascular infections (including 3 with mycotic aneurysm). Another 7 (33%) patients with C. fetus bacteremia died within 30 days. Significant risk factors associated with death within 30 days were dyspnea, quick sequential organ failure assessment score >2 at admission, and septic shock.

Keywords: Campylobacter fetus; France; bacteremia; bacteria; mortality; secondary localizations; vascular.

Figure 1

Flowchart of patient enrollment in study of Campylobacter fetus invasive infections and risks for death, Nord Franche-Comté Hospital, France, 2000–2021.

Figure 2

Distribution over time of bacteremia in 33 patients with Campylobacter fetus infection, Nord Franche-Comté Hospital, France, 2000–2021.

Figure 3

Kaplan-Meier survival curve for 33 patients with Campylobacter fetus infection, with and without bacteremia, Nord Franche-Comté Hospital, France, 2000–2021. Dashed lines indicate 95% CIs.