Burkholderia sepsis mimicking flare of ANCA-associated vasculitis: A rare presentation

ABSTRACT

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis is an autoimmune condition that primarily targets smallto medium sized vessels in multiple organ systems, with sinonasal, pulmonary and renal involvement being common.The present case study discusses a known case of ANCA associated vasculitis, type 2 diabetes and hypertension, whopresented with altered sensorium and weakness of the left side of the body. Few months before the onset of symptoms,the patient received rituximab injection for treating cutaneous panniculitis and high pANCA titers. MRI of brain and CECTof chest were suggestive of vasculitis and blood culture showed the growth of Burkholderia cepacia. She was treated withbroad spectrum antibiotics and other supportive treatment. Despite all the efforts including ionotropic and ventilatorsupports, the patient succumbed to the infection.