A Case of Diabetic Foot Ulcer Caused by Arcanobacterium haemolyticum and Streptococcus agalactiae / 대한임상미생물학회지

ABSTRACT

Arcanobacterium haemolyticum, a aerobic Gram-positive rod, has been described as an unusual pathogen causing soft tissue infections such as pharyngotonsillitis, chronic ulcer and cellulitis. In addition, the microorganism causes deep-seated infection and systemic disease including endocarditis, vertebral osteomyelitis and sepsis in patients with predisposing conditions such as diabetes mellitus. Since colonies and microscopic findings of A. haemolyticum might be confused with those of streptococci and coryneform bacteria, and it is usually isolated with other microorganisms, it is often considered to be normal flora or a contaminant in wound infections, resulting in missed or delayed diagnosis. Streptococcus agalactiae infections in neonates and pregnant women have been well recognized. However, invasive S. agalactiae infections in non-pregnant older adults with chronic medical conditions, particularly diabetes mellitus, are increasing. We report a case of diabetic foot ulcer due to A. haemolyticum and S. agalactiae in an uncontrolled diabetes mellitus patient.