Abstract
Introduction: C. pseudodiphtheriticum (Cp) may be present as commensal flora of the respiratory tract, but is increasingly being reported as a pathogen causing lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) (Manzella JP et al. Clin Infect Dis 1995;20:37-40).
Objectives: To assess clinical relevance of Cp as a lower respiratory tract pathogen and to describe patients at risk.
Methods: We retrospectively identified all lower respiratory tract cultures positive for Cp over a ten year period. Clinical relevance was assessed using predefined criteria and scored as 'likely', 'possible' or 'unlikely'.
Results: We identified 34 cultures in 28 patients. Clinical relevance of Cp was either likely or possible in 86%. Most patients had comorbidity (86%), notably cardiac (32%) or chronic pulmonary disease (64%).
Conclusion: Clinical relevance of C. pseudodiphtheriticum was either likely or possible in 86% of lower respiratory tract samples in patients with clinical signs and symptoms matching LRTI. Patients at risk are those with pre-existing cardiopulmonary disease.
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