Which clinical conditions can be caused by Plesiomonas shigelloides?

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: All of these

Explanation:

Introduction:Plesiomonas shigelloides is an oxidase-positive, gram-negative rod associated primarily with water exposure and seafood. It is best known for gastroenteritis but can cause extraintestinal disease.

Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We must consider both intestinal and extraintestinal presentations.
  • At-risk groups include those with liver disease or immunocompromise.

Concept / Approach:While self-limited diarrhea is common, invasive infections like septicaemia and soft tissue infections (including cellulitis following wound exposure to water) are documented, especially in vulnerable hosts.

Step-by-Step Solution: Acknowledge classic association: gastroenteritis after contaminated water/seafood. Recognize invasive potential: bloodstream infection in susceptible patients. Include soft tissue infection: cellulitis following aquatic trauma.

Verification / Alternative check:Case reports and reviews describe GI disease plus extraintestinal infections including cellulitis and bacteremia.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Each single entity alone: Too narrow; Plesiomonas causes multiple syndromes.
  • Urinary tract infection only: Not the typical or exclusive manifestation.

Common Pitfalls:Assuming it is only an enteric pathogen; overlooking water-related wound infections in history taking.

Final Answer:All of these (gastroenteritis, septicaemia, cellulitis) can be caused by Plesiomonas shigelloides.

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