retrosternal abscess and multiple lung cavities; a complication of tunneled hemodialysis catheter

ABSTRACT

Tunneled, cuffed central vein catheters [TCC] are an important mean of performing hemodialysis [HD].Infection is the commonest complication of these catheters. We describe a patient of chronic renal failure who suffered from Staphylococcus Aureus Bacteremia [SAB] due to the tunneled hemodialysis cathter. The bacteremia resulted in an isolated retrosternal abscess and multiple lung abscesses in this patient. The catheter was removed and patient was treated with broad spectrum antibiotics but he died despite optimal medical care. Although S. Aureus is a common cause of catheter related bacteremia but its manifestation as an isolated retrosternal abscess and multiple lung cavities due to tunneled hemodialysis catheter is a rare complication