An unusual case of <em>Escherichia coli</em> cellulitis and bacteraemia in an immunocompetent patient

Abstract

Cellulitis secondary to Escherichia coli (E.coli) is a rare phenomenon, particularly in an immunocompetent patient. We report on an unusual case of an immunocompetent 84-year-old female presenting with E.coli bacteraemia and E.coli cellulitis in the right lower leg. We postulate that bacterial translocation from the gastrointestinal tract to the bloodstream as the most likely source for E.coli infection. Whilst a common condition, cellulitis can pose a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge when a causative organism is not identified. Thorough investigation and consideration of atypical organisms such as E.coli is essential to permit targeted anti-microbial therapy and prevent patient deterioration.

Keywords

• cellulitis
• Escherichia Coli
• bacteraemia
• immunocompromised
• immunocompetent