Peritoneal Dialysis-Associated Peritonitis Caused by Achromobacter xylosoxidans: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Achromobacter xylosoxidans is a gram-negative bacterium that is responsible for rare peritonitis associated with peritoneal dialysis (PD). We present a case of a 64-year-old woman with a medical history of end-stage renal disease undergoing PD who was admitted to the emergency department with abdominal pain and nausea. Physical examination and laboratory studies revealed peritoneal signs and laboratory abnormalities consistent with peritonitis. Intraperitoneal catheter dysfunction was identified and subsequently resolved via laparoscopy. Following a peritoneal fluid culture, A xylosoxidans was identified, leading to the initiation of intraperitoneal meropenem treatment. After an initial improvement, the patient developed an ileus and recurrent abdominal symptoms, and further peritoneal cultures remained positive for A xylosoxidans. Subsequent treatment included intravenous meropenem and vancomycin for Clostridium difficile colitis. Owing to the high likelihood of biofilm formation on the PD catheter by A xylosoxidans, the catheter was removed, and the patient transitioned to hemodialysis. Intravenous meropenem was continued for 2 weeks post-catheter removal. This case highlights the challenges in managing recurrent peritonitis in PD patients caused by multidrug-resistant A xylosoxidans. A high index of suspicion, appropriate microbiological identification, and targeted intraperitoneal and systemic antibiotic treatment, along with catheter management, are crucial in achieving a favorable outcome in such cases.

Keywords: A xylosoxidans; Achromobacter xylosoxidans infection; peritoneal dialysis; peritonitis; tunnel infection.