Paenibacillus alvei Multifocal Cavitary Lung Abscesses in an Immunocompetent Man

Abstract

Abstract Paenibacillus alvei (formerly Bacillus alvei) is infrequently recognized as a pathogenic bacterium in humans. P. alvei has historically been considered a nonvirulent organism found in soil and water sources and most well-described in European foulbrood, a disease of honeybees. Few case reports have been described in humans, none of which include cavitary lung abscess formation. We describe a case of multifocal lung abscesses secondary to P. alvei in an immunocompetent man and review the literature of other case reports in humans. Identification of P. alvei remains challenging, and the biochemical tests to make the diagnosis are reviewed. Treatment is generally guided by in vitro susceptibility patterns, and we will review the clinical case reports that have resulted in successful treatment of this bacterium.