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Excerpt from Vibrio Vulnificus InfectionSynonyms, Key Words, and Related Terms: V vulnificus, consumption of raw shellfish, exposure to contaminated seawater Please click here to view the full topic text: Vibrio Vulnificus InfectionBackgroundVibrio vulnificus is a gram-negative bacillus that only affects humans and other primates. It is in the same family as bacteria that cause cholera. The first documented case of disease caused by the organism was in 1979. V vulnificus is usually found in warm, shallow, coastal salt water in temperate climates throughout most of the world. It can be found in the Gulf of Mexico, along most of the East Coast of the United States, and along all of the West Coast of the United States. V vulnificus can be found in water; sediment; plankton; and shellfish, such as oysters, clams, and crabs. This organism can survive in seawater and can produce wound infections, a potentially serious problem among Asian tsunami survivors.1 PathophysiologyV vulnificus infects the body in 2 ways, either by exposure to contaminated seafood, such as raw oysters, or through an open wound exposed to contaminated seawater. Among healthy individuals, within 16 hours of ingestion, they experience vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Many patients develop distinctive bullous skin lesions. In patients who are immunocompromised, particularly those with chronic liver disease (especially cirrhosis), immunosuppression, end-stage renal disease, and hematopoietic disorders, V vulnificus can cause life-threatening septic shock and blistering skin lesions. Those who are immunocompromised are at a much greater risk for contracting V vulnificus and dying from overwhelming sepsis. Because the incidence of disease is relatively low, not all strains of V vulnificus may be equally virulent. Recent data are consistent with the existence of 2 genotypes of V vulnificus, with the C-type being a strong indicator of potential virulence.2 FrequencyUnited StatesV vulnificus infections are rare but underreported. Most cases are found in the Gulf Coast states, and they are most common during warm weather months. InternationalThe frequency of V vulnificus infection, which is rare in Japan, was evaluated in 2008. Its prevalence varied in different districts.3 Mortality/MorbidityMost V vulnificus infections are acute but have no long-term consequences; however, in patients who develop septic shock from infection with V vulnificus, the mortality rate is 50%. In rare instances, skin infection can result in necrotizing fasciitis. RaceAll races are affected equally. SexMales and females are affected equally. AgeAll ages are affected equally. Please click here to view the full topic text: Vibrio Vulnificus Infection |
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