Case Report: An Unexpected Herbaspirillum Huttiense Bacteremia in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Abstract

Background

Herbaspirillum huttiense is a gram-negative bacterium that is rarely implicated in human infections. This case underscores the risk of opportunistic infections in immunocompromised neonates receiving high-dose corticosteroid therapy. It contributes to the scientific literature by expanding the current understanding of neonatal Herbaspirillum infections.

Case presentation

A preterm infant was admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit due to thrombocytopenia secondary to maternal chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. During high-dose methylprednisolone therapy, Herbaspirillum huttiense was isolated from the patient’s blood culture. Following antimicrobial treatment, the infection was successfully eradicated, and the patient recovered.

Conclusion

This case highlights the need for meticulous monitoring, early diagnosis, and timely intervention in managing severe infections in immunocompromised neonates. A comprehensive approach to infection surveillance is crucialto improving outcomes in this vulnerable population.

Keywords

Herbaspirillum - neonate - sepsis

Publication History

Received: 24 September 2024

Accepted after revision: 04 March 2025

Article published online:
10 April 2025

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