Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides Bacteremia in an Immunocompromised Patient with Hematological Comorbidities—Case Report

Abstract

Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides is a rare pathogen that can cause bacteremia in immunocompromised patients, particularly those with hematological conditions like acute myeloid leukemia. In this case, a 56-year-old woman developed Leuconostoc bacteremia following chemotherapy and multiple infections, including invasive aspergillosis. Despite broad-spectrum antibiotic treatments, her fever persisted until the blood cultures identified Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides. Switching to intravenous ampicillin led to the resolution of symptoms. This case highlights the challenges in diagnosing and treating rare, glycopeptide-resistant bacteria in immunosuppressed patients and underscores the importance of repeated blood cultures and automated diagnostic systems. It also highlights the need for more rapid ways of diagnosing and treating such rare infections.