Peritoneal-dialysis-associated peritonitis due to Staphylococcus sciuri: a case report and literature review

Abstract

BackgroundPeritoneal-dialysis-associated peritonitis is a serious complication of peritoneal dialysis; prevention and treatment are crucial to reduce patient morbidity and mortality. Staphylococcus sciuri is an organism that, although present in several animal species, rarely causes disease in humans, particularly in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis.Case presentationA 54-year-old man with end-stage kidney disease on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis was admitted to the emergency department with nausea, vomiting, slight abdominal distention, and cloudy peritoneal dialysis effluent. Relevant medical history included occupational exposure to different animal species. The white blood cell count in the peritoneal dialysis fluid sample was 11,200 cells/mm3 with 90% polymorphonuclear cells. Peritoneal-dialysis-associated peritonitis was diagnosed. Empirical antibiotic treatment was started according to the International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis guidelines. Staphylococcus sciuri was identified in the peritoneal dialysis effluent culture by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The treatment was modified on the basis of the sensitivity results. Medical cure was established on the basis of the negative result of the dialysate culture and absence of alterations in the cell count with differential after the end of treatment. The patient was instructed to be careful when administering peritoneal dialysis, especially in the care involved in being in contact with animals.ConclusionsThis article highlights the importance of Staphylococcus sciuri as a significant pathogen due to its virulence and antibiotic resistance, especially in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis. Prevention strategies as well as timely diagnosis and treatment compliance according to the International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis are essential for successful outcomes.