Early Diagnosis of Disseminated Mycobacterium genavense Infection
2008

Early Diagnosis of Mycobacterium genavense Infection in Heart Transplant Recipient

Sample size: 1 publication Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): de Lastours Victoire, Guillemain Romain, Mainardi Jean-Luc, Aubert Agnès, Chevalier Patrick, Lefort Agnès, Podglajen Isabelle

Primary Institution: Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris

Conclusion

The early diagnosis of disseminated Mycobacterium genavense infection in a heart transplant recipient allowed for timely treatment and a positive outcome.

Supporting Evidence

  • The patient was diagnosed with M. genavense after experiencing abdominal pain and weight loss.
  • 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used for the rapid identification of the infection.
  • The patient was treated with a combination of five antibiotics.
  • Clinical signs resolved after five months of treatment.

Takeaway

Doctors found a rare germ in a heart transplant patient that can make people very sick, but they caught it early and treated him successfully.

Methodology

The diagnosis was made using 16S rRNA gene amplification and sequencing from intestinal biopsy samples.

Limitations

The study is based on a single case, which may not represent the broader population.

Participant Demographics

A 37-year-old male heart transplant recipient.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3201/eid1401.070901

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