Multidrug-resistant Bacteroides fragilis Isolated from a Case of Pyopneumothorax

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this case report is to present an unusual case of multidrug- resistant Bacteroides fragilis from a patient with pyopneumothorax who had a blunt injury to the thorax and got admitted in a tertiary care hospital, South India. Presentation of Case: The patient developed pyopneumothorax after a blunt injury and on admission was treated empirically with piperacillin-tazobactam and metronidazole. Following antibiotic sensitivity testing the B. fragilis strain isolated showed multidrug resistance including metronidazole. Imipenem was initiated replacing empiric therapy with a successful clinical outcome. Discussion: Bacteroides species are obligate anaerobic bacteria that are usually found in the gastrointestinal tract of the human body. Bacteroides species are the most commonly isolated anaerobic organisms from intra-abdominal lesions and rarely from intrathoracic disease conditions like pyopneumothorax. Pyopneumothorax caused by Bacteroides species is associated with high treatment failure and mortality rates in antibiotic-resistant cases. Though metronidazole is the mainstay of treating anaerobic infections, attention has to be given to the possibility of multidrug resistance when treating critical diseases. Conclusion: This case report summarizes the multidrug- resistance in Bacteroides fragilis strain isolated from a case of pyopneumothorax. The situation calls attention to the possibility of multidrug-resistance being underestimated when given as empirical therapy and institution of appropriate and timely antibiotic policy measures to prevent mortality.