First reported case of non-coastal Shewanella algae in the United States: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Shewanella algae is a gram-negative, motile, facultative anaerobic bacillus found in aquatic environments that is an emerging pathogen in both immunocompromised and immunocompetent patients, causing a wide spectrum of illnesses ranging from otitis media to bacteremia and septic shock. We report the first case of confirmed Shewanella algae infection in a non-coastal region of the United Sates, which caused lower extremity cellulitis, bacteremia, and septic shock and then review the literature for cases of Shewanella infections. We discuss the clinical presentation of Shewanella algae, as well as diagnosis, and therapeutic considerations.

Keywords

• Shewanella
• Algae
• Pseudomonas
• Marine exposure
• Lower extremity