HCM City doctors revive Cambodian infected with “flesh-eating” bacteria

HCM City, June 26 (VNA) – Doctors at City International Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City have successfully treated a 52-year-old Cambodian man suffering from Whitmore’s disease, caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, often referred to as the “flesh-eating” bacteria.

The patient was admitted to the hospital with severe respiratory failure, high fever, blood clotting, liver and lung damage, and an abscess near the left groin. Diagnosed with severe septicemia, pneumonia, and multiple organ failure, he was in critical condition with a high risk of imminent death.

Upon admission, he was immediately placed in intensive care. Doctors identified the case as severe septicemia affecting multiple organs, with cellulitis and risk of deep muscle abscess in the perineal region, leading them to target treatment for Whitmore’s disease. Intensive care included continuous blood filtration, mechanical ventilation, strong antibiotics, and comprehensive support for electrolyte balance and blood circulation.

After more than three weeks of intensive treatment, his pneumonia improved, breathing stabilised, sedation was reduced, and the breathing tube was removed. He is now conscious, able to eat orally, and in recovery.

Whitmore’s disease is an infection caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei that can adversely impact the health of humans and animals. First described by Alfred Whitmore in 1911, it is found worldwide but mainly in northern Australia and Southeast Asia.

In Vietnam, the disease is present across northern and southern provinces, is more common in men and adults, and occurs mostly during the rainy season. The fatality rate exceeds 40%, especially in cases with septic shock and severe pneumonia. In the southern region, the Hospital for Tropical Diseases in HCM City treats 20–30 cases annually.

The bacterium thrives in moist soil, especially clay, at depths of 25-45cm. It enters the body through skin abrasions. People regularly exposed to contaminated soil or water without protective gear are at high risk. Infection can also occur by inhaling contaminated dust or consuming improperly treated water or food containing the bacterium./.