Hepatologie und Pankreaswissenschaft

Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus Infection in a Liver Transplant Patient: A Case Report

Abstract

Ahneez Abdul Hameed1,3*, Bindu Mulakavalupil2, Francesca Trovato2 and Anita Verma

Lacticaseibacillus spp., are Gram-positive bacteria found in human mucosa and various fermented foods. Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, has been recognized for its beneficial effects on gut and vaginal microflora, though it can act as an opportunistic pathogen in immunocompromised individuals. We present the first case of L. rhamnosus pleural empyema and intraabdominal infection in a post liver transplant patient and review of literature. The isolate from peritoneal and pleural fluids was fully resistant to commonly used antibiotics in post-transplant setting. It was only susceptible to metronidazole. Most infections in literature are reported in patients with chronic illnesses and are associated with high mortality. In conclusion although L. rhamnosus is an opportunistic pathogen, but this and other reported cases emphasizes the necessity for increased awareness of it as a potential pathogen and its resistance in immunocompromised patients. For better outcome it is important to start customized early antimicrobial therapy with effective source control.