Case report: Peritonitis caused by Pantoea agglomerans from pet dog exposure in peritoneal dialysis

Abstract

Rationale: Peritonitis caused by Pantoea agglomerans is a rare occurrence in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis. Cases potentially linked to pet dogs are even rarer, and there is limited literature available.

Patient concerns: A patient undergoing peritoneal dialysis presented with symptoms of peritonitis, including abdominal pain and cloudy dialysis fluid.

Diagnoses: Microbiological analysis identified P agglomerans as the causative organism.

Interventions: The patient was treated with targeted antibiotic therapy and showed a positive response.

Outcomes: During a subsequent medical interview, it was revealed that the patient had close contact with their pet dog, raising the possibility that the infection may have been associated with this exposure.

Lessons: This case highlights the importance of considering zoonotic transmission as a potential source of infection in peritoneal dialysis patients, particularly when there is close contact with pets. Healthcare providers should educate patients about the potential risks posed by pets and implement preventive strategies to mitigate such risks.

Figure 1.

Patient’s clinical course. (A) Patient’s clinical progress. Both the leukocyte count and neutrophil ratio in the peritoneal fluid have decreased. On day 2 after hospital visit, based on interim report findings, cefazolin was discontinued, and only ceftazidime was continued. On day 15 after the hospital visit, the leukocyte count decreased to 4, leading to discontinuation of antibiotic therapy. (B) Clean exit site of the peritoneal dialysis catheter, no discharge detected. (C) Peritoneal fluid drawn on the day of admission. (D) Peritoneal fluid obtained on day 3 of hospitalization, showing improved turbidity.