Hafnia alvei: A new pathogen in open fractures. (April 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Litrenta, Jody; Oetgen, Matthew
• Is Part Of: Trauma case reports. Volume 8(2017)
• Page Start: 41
• Page End: 45
• Publication Date: 2017-04
• Subjects: Hafnia alvei -- Open fracture -- Forearm fracture -- Osteomyelitis; Wounds and injuries -- Periodicals; Traumatology -- Periodicals; 617.1005
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tcr.2017.01.019
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2352-6440

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Deep infection following open both bone forearm fractures is a rare complication. Prophylactic antibiotic regimens are targeted at the most common pathogens, which include primarily Staph aureus followed by gram-negative bacteria. Hafnia alvei is an unusual pathogen that is rarely pathogenic in humans and has never been reported as a cause of infection following open fracture. Methods: We present a 12-year-old male with an open forearm fracture who developed a late deep infection. Cultures grew only Hafnia alvei . The patient was treated with debridement, placement of antibiotic beads, and ciprofloxacin. Results: At 6 months following the initial debridement, the patient had no clinical evidence of infection and regained full function of the affected forearm without any residual deficits. Conclusions: This is the first report of deep infection following an open forearm fracture owing to Hafnia alvei, a pathogen rarely responsible for human infection.