Delftia acidovorans: A Rare Pathogen Isolated from Pleural Fluid in an Immunocompromised Host

Abstract

Delftia acidovorans is an aerobic, non fermentative gram negative rod that belongs to the Pseudomonas ribosomal Ribonucleic Acid (rRNA) homology Group III. The sources of isolation are sludge, biological waste water treatment plants. Patients in hospitals or with compromised immune systems are more likely to be affected. Delftia acidovorans can result in infectious endocarditis, ocular infections, otitis media, peritonitis, urinary tract infections, empyema, cavitary and interstitial pneumoniae, and nosocomial bacteraemia, including bacteraemia linked to central venous catheters in people with compromised immune systems. This case report is about a 57-year-old male with complaints of loss of appetite for six days and vomiting, as well as loss of weight. He was diagnosed with HIV two years ago and was on HAART (Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy). This atypical bacterium was isolated from pleural fluid of the patient; and he was managed with albumin infusion, anticoagulants, beta blockers, fluid and salt restriction and intravenous antibiotics. It is an emerging source of Gram negative bacilli which is normally a non pathogen causing serious infections among immunocompromised patients.

Keywords

• human immunodeficiency virus
• highly active antiretroviral therapy