Campylobacter fetus aortitis in a patient with HIV. (2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Eke, Uzoamaka A.; Doub, James B.; Chua, Joel V.
• Is Part Of: IDCases. Volume 25(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021
• Subjects: Campylobacter fetusaortitis -- Human immunodeficiency virus -- HIV -- Ertapenem; Communicable diseases -- Periodicals; Communicable Diseases -- Case Reports; Communicable Diseases -- Periodicals; Communicable diseases; Periodicals; 616.9
• DOI: 10.1016/j.idcr.2021.e01169
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2214-2509

Abstract

Highlights: Campylobacter fetus (C. fetus) is a rare cause of human disease but is responsible for over 50 % of invasive campylobacteriosis in humans. C. fetus aortitis can rapidly progress to aneurysm and rupture, so urgent surgical intervention is required to prevent morbidity and mortality. C. fetus has a tropism for endovascular surfaces and is able to evade host immune response which leads to recurrence and relapsing infections. In the HIV-infected patient, C. fetus can persist due to defective cell mediated immunity and reduced production of C. fetus specific antibodies. Carbapenems and aminoglycosides are bactericidal against C. fetus and are used to treat invasive C. fetus infections. Abstract: A 36-year-old man with well controlled HIV developed Campylobacter fetus aortitis. To prevent aortic rupture, emergent surgical resection and neo-aortoiliac replacement with his left femoral vein was conducted. After surgical intervention, he was successfully treated with intravenous ertapenem for 6 weeks followed by oral amoxicillin for 3 months.