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Deng Y, Zhang H, Lu J, Zhou Z, Zhang T, Cui X. Whipple's disease of the respiratory system: A case report. Exp Ther Med 2024; 27:133. [PMID: 38414785 PMCID: PMC10895612 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2024.12421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Whipple's disease (WD) is a multiple-system chronic disease caused by Tropheryma whipplei (T. whipplei) infection. The present study describes 3 cases of WD with clinical manifestations of cough, chest pain, headache, dyspnea, sputum, joint pain, abdominal pain, diarrhea and weight loss. Chest computed tomography (CT) showed signs of plaques, nodules and pleural thickening; and bronchoscopic alveolar lavage fluid metagenomic-sequencing indicated that it was T. whipplei. One patient was treated with meropenem as the starting regimen and two patients were treated with ceftriaxone as the starting regimen. Furthermore, two patients were provided with a maintenance regimen of cotrimoxazole and one was given a maintenance regimen of minocycline, which was combined with meropenem and ceftriaxone in order to improve their cough, chest pain, headache and dyspnea symptoms. To the best of our knowledge, there are few reports on WD of the respiratory system caused by T. whipplei, and differential diagnosis is the key to clinical diagnosis. When WD of the respiratory system is difficult to diagnose, metagenomic second-generation sequencing (mNGS) may be a better choice, which can achieve early diagnosis and early treatment. However, its clinical value is still limited; therefore, more research needs to be conducted in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Deng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Fifth People's Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing 400062, P.R. China
| | - Hongmei Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Fifth People's Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing 400062, P.R. China
| | - Junyu Lu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Fifth People's Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing 400062, P.R. China
| | - Zhiyu Zhou
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, P.R. China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, P.R. China
| | - Xuerong Cui
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, People's Hospital of Shizhu Tujia Autonomous County, Chongqing 409199, P.R. China
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2
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Liew KC, Nguyen C, Waidyatillake NT, Nguyen T, Walton A, Harris O, Athan E, Stenos J, Graves SR. A serological assay using Tropheryma whipplei antigens for the presumptive exclusion of Whipple disease. Pathology 2024; 56:98-103. [PMID: 38061960 DOI: 10.1016/j.pathol.2023.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Whipple disease (WD) is a rare infection in genetically susceptible people caused by the bacterium Tropheryma whipplei. An indirect immunofluorescence serological assay (IFA), detecting patient antibodies to the bacterium, was developed using T. whipplei as antigen. We hypothesised that this assay could be used to rule out WD in patients in whom the diagnosis was being considered, based on high immunoglobulin (Ig) G titres to T. whipplei. In this study, 16 confirmed WD patients and 156 age-matched controls from across Australia were compared serologically. WD patients mostly underproduced IgG antibody to T. whipplei, with titres of ≤1:32 being common. While at an antibody titre of <1:64 the assay sensitivity for WD was only 69% [95% confidence interval (CI) 41-89%], its specificity for excluding WD was 91% (95% CI 85-95%). This specificity increased to 95% (95% CI 90-98%) at an antibody titre of <1:16. Patients with antibody titres of >1:64 were unlikely to have WD. At this titre, the seroprevalence of T. whipplei IgG antibody was 92% (223/242) in Australian blood donors. Unlike other serological assays, which are used to confirm a specific infection, this novel assay is designed to rule out WD infection with a specificity in Australia of 91%. Further validation of this assay, by trialling in other countries, should now be undertaken, as its usefulness is dependent on there being a high background seropositivity to T. whipplei in the general population at the location in which the assay is being used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwee Chin Liew
- Department of Microbiology, Australian Clinical Labs, Geelong, Vic, Australia; Australian Rickettsial Reference Laboratory, University Hospital Geelong, Geelong, Vic, Australia; Deakin University, School of Medicine, Geelong, Vic, Australia.
| | - Chelsea Nguyen
- Australian Rickettsial Reference Laboratory, University Hospital Geelong, Geelong, Vic, Australia
| | - Nilakshi T Waidyatillake
- Barwon Health, University Hospital Geelong, Geelong, Vic, Australia; Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Trang Nguyen
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, ICPMR-Pathology West, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Aaron Walton
- Australian Rickettsial Reference Laboratory, University Hospital Geelong, Geelong, Vic, Australia; Deakin University, School of Medicine, Geelong, Vic, Australia
| | - Owen Harris
- Department of Microbiology, Australian Clinical Labs, Geelong, Vic, Australia; Deakin University, School of Medicine, Geelong, Vic, Australia; Barwon Health, University Hospital Geelong, Geelong, Vic, Australia
| | - Eugene Athan
- Australian Rickettsial Reference Laboratory, University Hospital Geelong, Geelong, Vic, Australia; Deakin University, School of Medicine, Geelong, Vic, Australia; Barwon Health, University Hospital Geelong, Geelong, Vic, Australia
| | - John Stenos
- Australian Rickettsial Reference Laboratory, University Hospital Geelong, Geelong, Vic, Australia
| | - Stephen R Graves
- Australian Rickettsial Reference Laboratory, University Hospital Geelong, Geelong, Vic, Australia
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Choi R, Pazevic A, Pak K, Skaret M, Bachmann A, Wilkerson R. A Case of Whipple's Disease With Concomitant Esophageal Candidiasis. Mil Med 2024; 189:e405-e409. [PMID: 37539465 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usad246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Whipple's Disease (WD) is a rare disease caused by the infection of Tropheryma whipplei. It can lead to immunosuppression and a multitude of effects on different organ systems, resulting in a constellation of seemingly unrelated findings. Although treatment may appear straightforward, T. whipplei can be difficult to eradicate. We present the case of a 36-year-old male with months of progressively worsening watery diarrhea, migratory arthralgias, and weight loss. He had undergone an extensive evaluation for rheumatologic, oncologic, and infectious disorders without positive findings. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy revealed esophageal candidiasis, Helicobacter pylori infection, and foamy macrophages in the lamina propria of the duodenum and ileum with positive polymerase chain reaction for T. whipplei. There were no other risk factors for esophageal candidiasis. He received treatment for his esophageal candidiasis and H. pylori infection and was treated for WD with ceftriaxone for 2 weeks, followed by hydroxychloroquine and doxycycline for 1 year. Symptoms resolved after 3 months of therapy. One year later, repeat bidirectional endoscopy was performed. Biopsies were negative for T. whipplei, although there were persistent foamy macrophages. There have been previously reported cases of patients with WD with concomitant esophageal candidiasis, and this association implies a likely state of relative immunosuppression associated with WD, which is thought to be the result of impaired T helper cell 1 activity. This impairment likely contributes to the high rate of relapse. Having a low threshold for repeat evaluation is advisable for recurrent symptoms, but long-term surveillance strategies are not clearly defined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, CA 92134, USA
| | - Alexander Pazevic
- Department of Internal Medicine, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, CA 92134, USA
| | - Kevin Pak
- Department of Gastroenterology, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, CA 92134, USA
| | - Michael Skaret
- Division of Gastroenterology, Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune, Camp Lejeune, NC 28547, USA
| | - Angela Bachmann
- Department of Pathology, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, CA 92134, USA
| | - Rashad Wilkerson
- Department of Gastroenterology, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, CA 92134, USA
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Rasool N. Ophthalmic manifestations of Whipple's disease. Curr Opin Ophthalmol 2024; 35:83-88. [PMID: 37830937 DOI: 10.1097/icu.0000000000000989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Whipple's disease is an infectious cause of uveitis that may present with nonspecific findings of intraocular inflammation, which can precede the development of neurologic symptoms and signs. Whipple's disease, then, may evade consideration in the differential diagnosis for uveitis. RECENT FINDINGS Molecular tests can be helpful in identifying the presence of Tropheryma whipplei from ocular specimens. The application of metagenomic sequencing for ocular specimens is promising, as it offers the opportunity to identify the pathogen when suspicion for an intraocular infection is high. Whipple's disease demonstrates the ability to abrogate the host immune response, which gives some insight into its pathogenesis. SUMMARY Whipple's disease should be suspected in patients who have uveitis refractory to anti-inflammatory therapy. Knowledge of this important pathogen can help direct the timely implementation of diagnostic testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nailyn Rasool
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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Salman AR, Salomao DR, Dalvin LA, Olsen TW, Smith WM. Ocular Whipple Disease: Cases Diagnosed Over Four Decades. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2023:1-6. [PMID: 37917881 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2023.2271995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe ocular involvement in subjects with Whipple's disease (WD). METHODS Retrospective review of documented WD cases seen at Mayo Clinic between 1980 and 2021 with ocular involvement. RESULTS Of 217 patients with WD, 30 had eye exams and four (two female, median age 58.5 years) had ocular involvement. Findings included anterior/intermediate uveitis (n = 2), intermediate uveitis and phlebitis (n = 1), and chorioretinitis with vitritis (n = 1). The diagnosis was confirmed by vitreous biopsy in three of four cases. In two cases, WD diagnosis was unconfirmed prior to the ocular diagnosis. Systemic manifestations included gastrointestinal symptoms in all patients, synovitis (n = 3), weight loss (n = 2), and pericarditis (n = 1). Mean time from onset of ocular symptoms to ocular diagnosis was 11 months (range 2-28 months). Prior systemic symptoms were present as long as 3 years. CONCLUSIONS WD is uncommon and ocular involvement is even more rare. However, WD should be considered in the differential for all patients with chronic recalcitrant uveitis, especially in the setting of polyarthralgias and/or gastrointestinal symptoms. Vitreous biopsy is a reliable method to diagnose ocular WD.Abbreviations and Acronyms: Whipple's disease (WD), intestinal lipodystrophy (IL), polymerase-chain reaction (PCR), periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali R Salman
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Diva R Salomao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Lauren A Dalvin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Timothy W Olsen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Wendy M Smith
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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Cheng Y, Lu KY, Shao D. Whipple Disease Misdiagnosed as Lymphoma by 18 F-FDG PET/CT: A Case Study. Clin Nucl Med 2023; 48:e549-e551. [PMID: 37793140 DOI: 10.1097/rlu.0000000000004852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Whipple disease is a rare disorder caused by infection with the gram-positive bacterium Tropheryma whipplei . It can invade various organs and systems of the whole body. This case report describes a patient with invasion of multiple lymph nodes throughout the body misdiagnosed as lymphoma by PET/CT.
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Affiliation(s)
- You Cheng
- From the Department of PET Center, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences)
| | - Kai-Yu Lu
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Shao
- From the Department of PET Center, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences)
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7
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Du ZM, Chen P. Co-infection of Chlamydia psittaci and Tropheryma whipplei: A case report. World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:7144-7149. [PMID: 37946759 PMCID: PMC10631409 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i29.7144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The co-infection of Chlamydia psittaci (C. psittaci) and Tropheryma whipplei (T. whipplei) is unusual, and the detection of pathogenic microorganisms is particularly important for patients with severe diseases or poor experience in treatment. Early identification of pathogens can significantly improve the prognosis of the patients. Targeted next-generation sequencing (tNGS) is currently widely used in clinical practice for various infectious diseases, including respiratory infections, to achieve early, accurate, and rapid microbial diagnosis. CASE SUMMARY We report a case of a 40-year-old female patient with a history of contact with parrots who was diagnosed with C. psittaci and T. whipplei infection through bronchial lavage fluid targeted next generation sequencing. After moxifloxacin treatment, the patient's symptoms improved significantly, and the imaging changes were obviously resolved. CONCLUSION Coinfection with C. psittaci and T. whipplei is not common. In this case, timely and accurate identification of both pathogens was achieved using tNGS. Moreover, the efficacy of monotherapy with moxifloxacin was confirmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhu-Man Du
- Respiratory and Critical Care Discipline, Clinical Medicine College, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University, Chengdu 610000, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Pei Chen
- Respiratory and Critical Care Discipline, Clinical Medicine College, Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University, Chengdu 610000, Sichuan Province, China
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Weber M, Dancygier H, Blasberg T, Wedi E. [Co-occurrence of Whipple's disease and hyperparathyroidism - coincidence or causal relationship?]. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR GASTROENTEROLOGIE 2023; 61:1214-1220. [PMID: 37309099 DOI: 10.1055/a-1984-0403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Whipple's disease is a rare infectious disease with multiple clinical manifestations. The disease is named after George Hoyt Whipple, who first recorded the illness in 1907 after conducting the autopsy of a 36-year-old man with weight loss, diarrhea, and arthritis. Under the microscope, Whipple discovered a rod-shaped bacterium in the patient's intestinal wall, which was not confirmed as a new bacterial species until 1992, when it was named Tropheryma whipplei.Recurrence of Whipple's disease can occur years after an initial diagnosis and often manifests with extraintestinal symptoms such as arthritides or skin efflorescences, years before a gastrointestinal complaint. However, the simultaneous occurrence of primary hyperparathyroidism in the present case is a hitherto unknown clinical picture and opens up new questions and perspectives in the context of diagnostics and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Weber
- Abteilung für Gastroenterologie, Gastrointestinale Onkologie und Interventionelle Endoskopie, Sana Klinikum Offenbach GmbH, Offenbach, Germany
| | | | - Tobias Blasberg
- Abteilung für Gastroenterologie, Gastrointestinale Onkologie und Interventionelle Endoskopie, Sana Klinikum Offenbach GmbH, Offenbach, Germany
| | - Edris Wedi
- Abteilung für Gastroenterologie, Gastrointestinale Onkologie und Interventionelle Endoskopie, Sana Klinikum Offenbach GmbH, Offenbach, Germany
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9
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Nunes F, Trovão Bastos M, Fernandes MJ, Oliveira J, Costa M. A Case Report of Whipple's Disease: A Challenging Diagnosis. Cureus 2023; 15:e41021. [PMID: 37519601 PMCID: PMC10374977 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.41021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Whipple's disease is caused by a ubiquitous Gram-positive bacillus, Tropheryma whipplei. The disease is extremely rare, with only 1,000 cases reported worldwide. Classic Whipple's disease is characterized by a multisystemic involvement with joint (arthralgias) and gastrointestinal (abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss) symptoms. We present a case of a 48-year-old male who had a constitutional syndrome associated with an exuberant bilateral pleural effusion. The small bowel biopsy identified a rod-shaped bacterial cologne in the macrophage cytoplasm, positive for periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining, and the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) exam identified the DNA of Tropheryma whipplei. The patient was medicated with two weeks of endovenous antibiotherapy with ceftriaxone 2 g per day, followed by one year of oral trimethoprim 160 mg and sulfamethoxazole 800 mg twice daily. He presented good evolution with total resolution of symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa Nunes
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Prof. Doutor Fernando da Fonseca, Lisbon, PRT
| | - Martim Trovão Bastos
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Prof. Doutor Fernando da Fonseca, Lisbon, PRT
| | - Maria João Fernandes
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Prof. Doutor Fernando da Fonseca, Lisbon, PRT
| | - Jéssica Oliveira
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Prof. Doutor Fernando da Fonseca, Lisbon, PRT
| | - Mariana Costa
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Prof. Doutor Fernando da Fonseca, Lisbon, PRT
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Batista M, Santos ML, Silva C, Pereira G, Alves G, Cotter J. Whipple's Disease: A Case Report. Cureus 2023; 15:e39963. [PMID: 37415994 PMCID: PMC10320647 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.39963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Whipple's disease (WD) is caused by Tropheryma whipplei, frequently found in lamina propria's macrophages in the small intestine. It is a rare and chronic systemic infection, and the principal clinical manifestations are diarrhea, weight loss, abdominal pain, and arthralgia. The diagnosis is difficult mainly because of its rarity and should be considered in patients with arthralgias, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss after more common conditions have been excluded. The laboratory diagnosis is established by a duodenal biopsy. The treatment involves 14 days of intravenous antibiotics with good penetration in the cerebrospinal fluid (i.e., ceftriaxone) and one-year treatment with oral co-trimoxazole. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are crucial because it improves the prognosis. We report the case of a 58-year-old female with skin hyperpigmentation, loss of appetite and weight (16% of body weight in three months), nausea, upper abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy were performed to obtain biopsy samples, which, together with laboratory tests and microbiological studies, led to a diagnosis of Whipple's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Batista
- Internal Medicine, Hospital da Senhora da Oliveira, Guimarães, PRT
| | | | - Cristina Silva
- Internal Medicine, Hospital da Senhora da Oliveira, Guimarães, PRT
| | - Gabriela Pereira
- Internal Medicine, Hospital da Senhora da Oliveira, Guimarães, PRT
| | - Glória Alves
- Internal Medicine, Hospital da Senhora da Oliveira, Guimarães, PRT
| | - Jorge Cotter
- Internal Medicine, Hospital da Senhora da Oliveira, Guimarães, PRT
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[Massive pancarditis-autopsy report]. PATHOLOGIE (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 44:132-138. [PMID: 36592174 PMCID: PMC9807089 DOI: 10.1007/s00292-022-01170-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
We report on a 69-year-old man suffering from chronic progressive oligoarthritis (localized in metacarpal and knee joints), which clinically was interpreted as steroid-sensitive seronegative chronic arthritis. The patient died from sudden death at the emergency department after a 4-week history of increasing cough and dyspnea (meanwhile obtaining negative testing results for SARS-CoV-2). During the autopsy, we found massive pancarditis affecting all cardiac compartments, in particular exhibiting constrictive pericarditis, myocarditis, and multivalvular endocarditis. Microscopically, interstitial myocarditis could be observed. Performing extensive molecular analyses, we detected Tropheryma whipplei in the tissue specimens of the heart, but not in various duodenal tissue probes or in the synovial membrane. Taken together, in the present case the cause of death was acute cardiac failure due to multivalvular pancarditis due to T. whipplei. Besides from classical symptoms and morphological signs, Whipple's disease may present with various features. Regarding the differential diagnosis of a chronic multisystem disorder with aspects of hitherto unknown arthralgia, Whipple's disease should be considered.
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Dong Y, Chen Q, Tian B, Li J, Li J, Hu Z. Advancing Microbe Detection for Lower Respiratory Tract Infection Diagnosis and Management with Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing. Infect Drug Resist 2023; 16:677-694. [PMID: 36743335 PMCID: PMC9896973 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s387134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Due to limitations of traditional microbiological methods and the presence of the oropharyngeal normal flora, there are still many pathogens that cause lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) cannot be detected. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) has the potential capacity to solve this problem. Methods This retrospective study successively reviewed 77 patients with LRTI and 29 patients without LRTI admitted to Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, China from August 2020 to June 2021. Pathogens in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) specimens were detected adopting mNGS and traditional microbiological assays. The diagnostic performance of pathogens was compared between mNGS and BALF culture. The value of mNGS for aetiological and clinical impact investigation in LRTI was also evaluated. Results Among 77 patients with LRTI, 22.1%, 40.3%, and 65.0% of cases were detected as definite or probable pathogens by culture, all conventional microbiological tests, and mNGS, respectively. Using the final diagnosis as a gold standard, mNGS exhibited a sensitivity of 76.6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 65.6-85.5%), which was considerably superior to that of BALF culture (76.6% vs 18.2%; P < 0.01); specificity of 79.3% (95% CI, 60.3-92.0%), which was similar (79.3% vs 89.7%; P = 0.38); positive-predictive value of 90.8% (95% CI, 81.0-96.5%), and negative-predictive value of 56.1% (95% CI, 39.7-71.5%). According to our data, mNGS identified potential microorganisms in 66.7% (42/63) of culture-negative samples. Among 59 patients with pathogens identified by mNGS, conventional microbiological methods confirmed pathogenic infections in less than half (28/59) cases. Within the 77 patients, 34 (44.2%) patients received pathogen-directed therapy, 7 (9.1%) patients underwent antibiotic adjustment, and 3 (3.9%) patients stopped using antibiotics due to mNGS results. Conclusion mNGS exhibits high accuracy in diagnosing LRTI, and combine with traditional microbiological tests, causative pathogens can be detected in approximately 70.0% of cases, thus yields a positive effect on antibiotic application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulan Dong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qianqian Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bin Tian
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jin Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhidong Hu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China,Correspondence: Zhidong Hu, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, No. 154 Anshan Road, Heping District, Tianjin, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86 022-60814202, Email
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13
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Ahmad AI, Wikholm C, Pothoulakis I, Caplan C, Lee A, Buchanan F, Kyoo Cho W. Whipple's disease review, prevalence, mortality, and characteristics in the United States: A cross-sectional national inpatient study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e32231. [PMID: 36626499 PMCID: PMC9750640 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000032231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Whipple's disease is a rare multiorgan systemic disease caused by Tropheryma whipplei infection that may present with a wide range of signs and symptoms. This study aim to comprehensively review and determine the inpatient prevalence, mortality, risk factors, and reasons for hospitalization of patients with Whipple's disease. ICD-10 codes were used to identify admissions with Whipple's disease during the years 2016 to 2018. Characteristics of admissions with and without Whipple's disease were compared. The most common reasons for hospitalization were identified in admissions with Whipple's disease. The prevalence of Whipple's disease was 4.6 per 1 million hospitalizations during the study period. Whipple's disease admissions were significantly older than other hospitalizations, with a mean age of 60.2 ± 1.6 years compared to 50.0 ± 0.1. Males were more likely to have Whipple's disease and represented approximately two-thirds of hospitalizations. A disproportionate number of admissions occurred in the Midwest. Patients with Whipple's disease were most commonly admitted for gastrointestinal disease, followed by systemic infection, cardiovascular/circulatory disease, musculoskeletal disease, respiratory disease, and neurological disease. High mortality was seen in admissions for central nervous system (CNS) disease. Whipple's disease has heterogeneous presentations for inpatient admissions, and disproportionately affects older males. High hospitalization rates in the Midwest support environmental and occupational disease transmission likely from the soil. Hospitalists should be aware of the various acute, subacute, and chronic presentations of this disease, and that acute presentations may be more common in the inpatient setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akram I. Ahmad
- Department of Internal Medicine, MedStar Washington Hospital Center Rather than Georgetown, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Colin Wikholm
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Ioannis Pothoulakis
- Department of Internal Medicine, MedStar Washington Hospital Center Rather than Georgetown, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Claire Caplan
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Arielle Lee
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Faith Buchanan
- Department of Internal Medicine, MedStar Washington Hospital Center Rather than Georgetown, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Won Kyoo Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine, MedStar Washington Hospital Center Rather than Georgetown, Washington, D.C., USA
- Department of Gastroenterology, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, D.C., USA
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Muacevic A, Adler JR, Ramasamy D, Kumar S. Whipple's Disease (WD) Without Arthropathy in an Immunocompromised Patient. Cureus 2022; 14:e31659. [PMID: 36545168 PMCID: PMC9761016 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.31659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Whipple's disease (WD) is a rare disorder caused by the pathogen Tropheryma whipplei (T. whipplei). We report a unique presentation of WD in which the patient did not exhibit arthralgia which is characteristic of this disease. A 67-year-old man with a history of chronic hepatitis B infection and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection presented with weight loss, nausea, vomiting, and myalgia. Endoscopy demonstrated erythema in the gastric body, lymphangiectasia of the duodenum, and increased granularity of the terminal ileum. Mucosal biopsies revealed macrophages in the lamina propria with focal histiocytic aggregates throughout the small bowel and cecum, consistent with WD. Confirmatory T. whipplei polymerase chain reaction(PCR) testing was positive. WD is a rare diagnosis that must be considered in the differential diagnoses of patients presenting with unexplained nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and anemia. Furthermore, in patients with HIV, the possibilities would also include opportunistic gastrointestinal pathogens. Classic WD is characterized by diarrhea, weight loss, abdominal pain, and extra-intestinal involvement manifesting as joint pain. We describe a case of WD occurring in a patient with HIV, without the disease's characteristic joint involvement.
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15
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Barbero-Aznarez P, Perez-Tanoira R, Aguirre-Mollehuanca D, Trascasa-Caño A, Fortes-Alen J, Manzarbeitia-Arrambari F, Castillo-Alvarez J, Montoya-Bordon J, Petkova-Saiz E, Prieto-Perez L. Isolated central nervous system Whipple disease. Surg Neurol Int 2022; 13:477. [DOI: 10.25259/sni_591_2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background:
Whipple disease (WD) is an infection caused by Tropheryma whipplei, which might present in three different forms: classical, localized, and isolated in the central nervous system (CNS).
Methods:
We report the result of a systematic review of the literature on WD unusually presenting with exclusively neurological symptoms, including two previously unpublished cases. A description of two cases with isolated CNS WD was performed, as well as a literature search in Cochrane, Scielo, and PubMed.
Results:
Two male adult patients presented with exclusively neurological symptomatology. Both magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed an intracranial mass suggestive of brain tumor. The histopathological examination was consistent with WD, with no systemic involvement. In the review of the literature, 35 cases of isolated CNS WD were retrieved. The median age at diagnosis was 43.5 (IQR 31.5–51.5). In 13 patients, the MRI showed a brain mass consistent with a brain tumor. The most common finding in the biopsy was the periodic-acid Schiff-stained foamy macrophages. Only five cases presented the pathognomonic sign of oculomasticatory myorhythmia. Thirteen cases had an adverse outcome that resulted in death during follow-up, whereas another 13 improved. The other nine patients remained stable or presented moderate improvement.
Conclusion:
Isolated CNS WD is a rare disease that should be considered among the differential diagnosis of CNS mass lesions. Brain biopsy is necessary to establish the diagnosis. It is stressed in the literature that an extended antibiotic course is required to prevent relapses and to control the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Barbero-Aznarez
- Department of Neurosurgery, Instituto Clavel, San Francisco De Asis University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ramon Perez-Tanoira
- Department of Microbiology, Principe de Asturias University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Jose Fortes-Alen
- Department of Pathology, Fundacion Jimenez Diaz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | - Laura Prieto-Perez
- Internal Medicine, Fundacion Jimenez Diaz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
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16
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Design of a Multi-Epitope Vaccine against Tropheryma whipplei Using Immunoinformatics and Molecular Dynamics Simulation Techniques. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10050691. [PMID: 35632446 PMCID: PMC9147804 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10050691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Whipple’s disease is caused by T. whipplei, a Gram-positive pathogenic bacterium. It is considered a persistent infection affecting various organs, more likely to infect males. There is currently no licensed vaccination available for Whipple’s disease; thus, the development of a chimeric peptide-based vaccine against T. whipplei has the potential to be tremendously beneficial in preventing Whipple’s disease in the future. The present study aimed to apply modern computational approaches to generate a multi-epitope-based vaccine that expresses antigenic determinants prioritized from the core proteome of two T. whipplei whole proteomes. Using an integrated computational approach, four immunodominant epitopes were found from two extracellular proteins. Combined, these epitopes covered 89.03% of the global population. The shortlisted epitopes exhibited a strong binding affinity for the B- and T-cell reference set of alleles, high antigenicity score, nonallergenic nature, high solubility, nontoxicity, and excellent binders of DRB1*0101. Through the use of appropriate linkers and adjuvation with a suitable adjuvant molecule, the epitopes were designed into a chimeric vaccine. An adjuvant was linked to the connected epitopes to boost immunogenicity and efficiently engage both innate and adaptive immunity. The physiochemical properties of the vaccine were observed favorable, leading toward the 3D modeling of the construct. Furthermore, the vaccine’s binding confirmation to the TLR-4 critical innate immune receptor was also determined using molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, which shows that the vaccine has a strong binding affinity for TLR4 (−29.4452 kcal/mol in MM-GBSA and −42.3229 kcal/mol in MM-PBSA). Overall, the vaccine described here has a promising potential for eliciting protective and targeted immunogenicity, subject to further experimental testing.
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17
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Clarke MCC, Price RN. Delayed Diagnosis of Whipple’s Disease Complicated by Jarisch–Herxheimer Reaction to Ceftriaxone Treatment: A Case Report and Literature Review. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 7:tropicalmed7030040. [PMID: 35324587 PMCID: PMC8954982 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7030040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Whipple’s disease is a rare chronic infection caused by the actinomycete Tropheryma whipplei. Patients commonly present with gastrointestinal symptoms. We present a case of classic Whipple’s disease complicated by a probable Jarisch–Herxheimer reaction following the initiation of ceftriaxone treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus C C Clarke
- Division of Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, 105 Rocklands Dr, Tiwi, NT 0810, Australia
| | - Ric N Price
- Division of Medicine, Royal Darwin Hospital, 105 Rocklands Dr, Tiwi, NT 0810, Australia
- Global and Tropical Health Division, Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Dr, Casuarina, NT 0810, Australia
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 2JD, UK
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18
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Guo Y, Li L, Li Z, Sun L, Wang H. Tropheryma whipplei Detection by Nanopore Sequencing in Patients With Interstitial Lung Disease. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:760696. [PMID: 34912314 PMCID: PMC8667551 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.760696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Tropheryma whipplei is a bacterium associated with Whipple's disease, which commonly manifests as weight loss, arthralgia, and diarrhea. The most frequently involved organs comprise the heart and eyes, in addition to the central nervous system. Few studies have explored the relationship between T. whipplei and pneumonia. Herein, we report three patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD) of unknown cause, whose bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were evaluated via Nanopore sequencing. In our in-house BALF Nanopore platform, human DNA was removed with saponin, to improve the reads ratio of microorganisms/host. T. whipplei was the sole or most abundant pathogen in all the patients, comprising 1,385, 826, and 285 reads. The positive result was confirmed via quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with two pairs of primers (cycle threshold value: 33.26/36.29; 31.68/32.01; 28.82/28.80) and Sanger sequencing. To our knowledge, this is the first report of T. whipplei detection using Nanopore-based sequencing. The turnaround time was approximately 6-8 h in clinical laboratories, including less than 1 h for analysis. In conclusion, the results of this study confirm that Nanopore sequencing can rapidly detect rare pathogens, to improve clinical diagnosis. In addition, diagnosis of Whipple's disease should be combined other laboratory findings, such as periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining, and considered a possibility in middle-aged men presenting with ILD and a clinical history of unexplained arthralgia and/or fever.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Guo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,Institute of Medical Technology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Lijuan Li
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, National Center for Clinical Research on Respiratory Diseases, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China.,Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenzhong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine and Innovative Drug Development, Jiangsu Simcere Diagnostics Co., Ltd., Nanjing, China.,Nanjing Simcere Medical Laboratory Science Co., Ltd., Nanjing, China
| | - Lingxiao Sun
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,Institute of Medical Technology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
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19
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Kadian R, Wang J, Freitas E. Could CT abdomen and PET/CT be helpful in early diagnosis of Whipple's disease? A case report. IDCases 2021; 26:e01286. [PMID: 34603962 PMCID: PMC8473535 DOI: 10.1016/j.idcr.2021.e01286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Whipple’s disease is a rare disease, which can be fatal if not treated. It is often diagnosed at a late stage because of the varied disease presentation and its rare incidence. Classic Whipple’s disease presents with arthralgia, abdominal pain, diarrhea and weight loss. CT abdomen may show mesenteric lymphadenopathy with hypodense centers. These CT findings along with clinical presentation should prompt early diagnosis of Whipple’s disease. We present a case of classic Whipple’s disease with interesting CT abdomen and PET scan findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renu Kadian
- Hospitalist, Great Plains Health, North Platte, NE, USA
| | - Jiashan Wang
- Hospitalist, Great Plains Health, North Platte, NE, USA
| | - Eduardo Freitas
- Infectious disease, Great Plains Health, North Platte, NE, USA
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20
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Turcan S, Tofan-Scutaru L, Istrate V, Tirbu V. Whipple's disease? A case report and discussion. Med Pharm Rep 2021; 94:S76-S78. [PMID: 34527918 DOI: 10.15386/mpr-2237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Whipple's disease (WD) is a rare chronic systemic disease caused by the Gram-positive bacillus Tropheryma whipplei. Despite over 100 years of observation and study history of this disease, it still remains a difficult diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Clinical case presentation Authors report the case of a 38-year-old man with long-time PPIs treatment because of GERD and no other clinical and paraclinical symptoms. Endoscopic slightly enlarged villi, accumulation of whitish matter at the tip of the villi of distal duodenal mucosa and periodic acid-Schiff staining positive inclusions in the stromal tissue may be typical signs of Whipple's disease. In discussion the possible explication of this case are presented. Conclusions It is still a challenge to diagnose Whipple's disease. Histological findings may confirm the diagnosis in patients with a combination of typical clinical manifestations, but histological signs alone are not pathognomic, and are not enough for a definitive diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetlana Turcan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Chisinau, Moldova
| | - Liudmila Tofan-Scutaru
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Chisinau, Moldova
| | - Viorel Istrate
- Department of Surgery 4, Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Chisinau, Moldova
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21
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Clinical manifestations of Whipple's disease mimicking rheumatic disorders. Reumatologia 2021; 59:104-110. [PMID: 33976464 PMCID: PMC8103404 DOI: 10.5114/reum.2021.105418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Whipple’s disease is a rare, chronic, systemic disorder caused by Tropheryma whipplei infection. The most common symptoms are weight loss, arthralgia, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Other organ involvement can also occur in the patients. Joint manifestations may mimic rheumatoid arthritis or spondyloarthritis. Arthalgia, arthritis, spondylodiscitis, bursitis and/or tenosynovitis are seen in the majority of the patients. This explains why some of the symptoms are misdiagnosed as those of rheumatic diseases. Understanding of Whipple’s disease is important for differential diagnostics of several rheumatic symptoms.
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22
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He YT, Peterson K, Crothers J, Dejace J, Hale AJ. Endocarditis and systemic embolization from Whipple's disease. IDCases 2021; 24:e01105. [PMID: 33868927 PMCID: PMC8047165 DOI: 10.1016/j.idcr.2021.e01105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Whipple’s disease (WD), caused by infection with the organism Tropheryma whipplei, is a rare disease that classically presents with diarrhea, weight loss, and polyarthralgia. Less commonly, Whipple’s Disease can presentation with endocarditis or neurologic infections. The authors report a patient with Whipple’s Disease endocarditis whose initial presentation was acute lower extremity arterial occlusion, and review current literature regarding the epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of Whipple’s Disease endocarditis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Ting He
- University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, VT, United States
| | | | - Jessica Crothers
- University of Vermont Medical Center, Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States
| | - Jean Dejace
- University of Vermont Medical Center, Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States
| | - Andrew J. Hale
- University of Vermont Medical Center, Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States
- Corresponding author at: University of Vermont Medical Center, Infectious Disease Unit, 111 Colchester Avenue, Mailstop 115 SM2, Burlington, VT 05401, United States.
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23
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Sayyadi M, Hosseinzadeh S, Hosseinzadeh M, Pourmontaseri Z. Molecular detection of Tropheryma whipplei, Cryptosporidium spp., and Giardia lamblia among celiac disease samples. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN MEDICAL SCIENCES : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF ISFAHAN UNIVERSITY OF MEDICAL SCIENCES 2020; 25:113. [PMID: 33912223 PMCID: PMC8067887 DOI: 10.4103/jrms.jrms_487_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Revised: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Celiac disease (CD) is one of the most common disorders, resulting from both environmental (gluten) and genetic factors. The clinical features of the Iranian CD are still unknown and there is insufficient information about the atypical presentation of CD from Iran. As, many previous reports revealed an association between controlled protozoal infections and the CD according to cytokines production, the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of CD and possible co-infection with the most prevalent protozoal infections including Tropheryma whipplei, Cryptosporidium, and Giardia duodenalis among CD samples. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this study, from April 2014 to November 2016, 524 samples were obtained from small intestine of patients with gastrointestinal diseases referring to the Pathology Department of Namazi Hospital, Shiraz, Iran. Multiplex polymerase chain reaction assay was then performed on the histological positive CD samples for the prevalence of the microorganisms. RESULTS Sixty-four (12.21%) patients were diagnosed as having CD by histopathological examination. The prevalence of T. whipplei and Cryptosporidium spp. was 19 (29.69%) and 8 (12.5%) respectively, among CD positive samples there was no positive sample for Giardia lamblia. CONCLUSION The prevalence of CD among the southwestern Iranian population was high and comparable with other areas of Iran as well as many other countries. Furthermore, no significant association between the presence of T. whipplei, Cryptosporidium spp., and level of the histopathological changes of villi in the CD was observed (P > 0.05).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Sayyadi
- Department of Food Hygiene and Public Health, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Saeid Hosseinzadeh
- Department of Food Hygiene and Public Health, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Zahra Pourmontaseri
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Science, Fasa, Iran
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24
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Alsarhani WK, Alkhalifah MI, Alkatan HM, Alsolami AL, Maktabi AMY, Alsuhaibani AH. Whipple's disease scleral nodules: a novel presentation in 2 consecutive patients. BMC Ophthalmol 2020; 20:413. [PMID: 33066757 PMCID: PMC7566054 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-020-01695-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Whipple’s disease (WD) is a rare, chronic, infection caused by gram-positive filamentous aerobic actinobacterium Tropheryma whipplei occurs classically in the gastrointestinal tract and shows histopathologically foamy macrophages with typical numerous PAS-positive, non-acid fast particles. Ocular WD in the form of uveitis may occur in the absence of systemic disease but has not been reported to present with scleral manifestation. We describe for the first time to the best of our knowledge 2 cases of scleral nodules with typical histopathological morphology of WD and without systemic involvement. Case presentation The first was a 53-year old diabetic male farmer who presented with 2 nontender right eye scleral nodules for 3 months, had a negative systemic workup, and surgical excision showed Periodic acid Schiff (PAS)-positive eosinophilic structures inside macrophages. Grocott’s methenamine silver (GMS) stain and acid-fast bacilli (AFB) stain of the tissue itself were negative. The second case was a 60-year old male who presented with an asymptomatic superior scleral nodule for 4 months, which showed similar appearance and negative GMS and AFB stains. Conclusion WD should be included in the differential diagnosis of scleral nodules even in the absence of systemic symptoms. Surgical excision without systemic treatment resulted in successful outcome without recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waleed K Alsarhani
- Ophthalmology Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhannad I Alkhalifah
- Ophthalmology Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hind M Alkatan
- Ophthalmology Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. .,Pathology Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University Medical city, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Afaf L Alsolami
- Pathology Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University Medical city, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Azza M Y Maktabi
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Adel H Alsuhaibani
- Ophthalmology Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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25
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Sampaio F, Moreira J, Jordão S, Vieira B, Pereira S, Carvalho R. Whipple's disease orbitopathy: case report and review of literature. Orbit 2020; 41:112-117. [PMID: 32912014 DOI: 10.1080/01676830.2020.1820044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
A 59-year-old female patient was diagnosed with Whipple's disease (WD) after several months of constitutional complaints and adenopathies that were initially misinterpreted as sarcoidosis. Initial treatment included doxycycline, hydroxychloroquine and prednisolone, which was suspended due to long-term clinical stability. Four months after prednisolone suspension, the patient presented with right periorbital oedema and erythema. Ophthalmological examination revealed restricted eye movements. A computed tomography (CT) scan demonstrated signs of myositis. The patient was treated with anti-inflammatory and antibiotic drugs, that induced remission of the orbitopathy. During the following two years, she presented three relapses, affecting both the right or the left eyes. The last episode was also associated with systemic corticosteroid tapering. Orbitopathy is a rare form of WD presentation and the diagnosis of this condition may be challenging. As the clinical spectrum may range from an incidentaloma to a severe compressive neuropathy, proper recognition and management of WD orbitopathy is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa Sampaio
- Ophthalmology Department, Hospital Pedro Hispano, Unidade Local de Saúde de Matosinhos, Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Jorge Moreira
- Ophthalmology Department, Hospital Pedro Hispano, Unidade Local de Saúde de Matosinhos, Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Sofia Jordão
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Pedro Hispano, Unidade Local de Saúde de Matosinhos, Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Bruna Vieira
- Ophthalmology Department, Hospital Pedro Hispano, Unidade Local de Saúde de Matosinhos, Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Sara Pereira
- Ophthalmology Department, Hospital Pedro Hispano, Unidade Local de Saúde de Matosinhos, Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Rui Carvalho
- Ophthalmology Department, Hospital Pedro Hispano, Unidade Local de Saúde de Matosinhos, Matosinhos, Portugal
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26
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Duss FR, Jaton K, Vollenweider P, Troillet N, Greub G. Whipple disease: a 15-year retrospective study on 36 patients with positive polymerase chain reaction for Tropheryma whipplei. Clin Microbiol Infect 2020; 27:910.e9-910.e13. [PMID: 32896657 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2020.08.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Our institution has performed microbiological diagnosis of Tropheryma whipplei since 2001, initially with a PCR targeting 16S rRNA before the development of a quantitative PCR in 2012. Here we report the clinical characteristics of a cohort of patients suffering from Whipple disease (WD) and evaluate the impact of these molecular techniques. Patients with a positive PCR for T. whipplei between 2001 and 2016 were retrospectively collected from microbiological databases. Two infectious diseases specialists reviewed their medical records and classified them as definite WD, probable WD or carriage of T. whipplei without disease. A total of 1153 samples were tested for T. whipplei; 76 samples taken from 36 patients were positive. Fifteen were considered as presenting a definite WD, seven as a probable WD and 14 as carriers. Median age was 56.4 years (extremes, 6.6-76.1). Median time from symptoms to diagnosis was 3 years (2.5 months to 13.3 years). About 60% were immunosuppressed. The most frequent clinical presentations were joint pain (16/22), weight loss (15/22) and/or digestive tract disorder (15/22); 41% had neurological manifestations, 32% pulmonary involvement and 32% lymphadenopathies. Bacterial load in faeces or saliva were 88 425 copies/mL (IQR 6175-292 725) in definite and probable WD and 311 copies/mL (IQR 253-2090) in carriers, respectively. We observed a 90% PPV above 32 200 copies/mL in faeces. WD is a chronic multisystemic disease with frequent pulmonary involvement. Underlying immunodeficiency is commonly observed leading to more complex clinical presentation. Positive T. whipplei PCR in both stool and saliva has a high positive predictive value. Moreover, patients with WD present higher bacterial load in faeces with a threshold of >32 200 copies/mL predicting ongoing infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- François-Régis Duss
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Katia Jaton
- Institute of Microbiology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Peter Vollenweider
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Troillet
- Department of Infectious Diseases Valais Hospital, Sion, Switzerland
| | - Gilbert Greub
- Institute of Microbiology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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27
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Aguiar Ferreira A, Gomes P, Curvo-Semedo L, Donato P. Whipple's disease: imaging contribution for a challenging case. BMJ Case Rep 2020; 13:13/2/e233071. [PMID: 32047086 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2019-233071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Whipple's disease is a rare and difficult-to-diagnose infectious disease, related to infection by gram-positive bacillum Tropheryma whipplei Clinical manifestations are very variable, but the classic form usually begins with recurring arthritis, followed several years later by non-specific abdominal symptoms, leading to late diagnosis. We present the case of a 52-year-old man who was admitted in the emergency department with an insidious clinical picture characterised by weight loss, abdominal pain, diarrhoea and arthralgias. An abdominal ultrasound was performed, showing findings suggestive of Whipple's disease, which, in conjunction with the clinical and laboratory findings, allowed the diagnosis to be correctly addressed. Upper endoscopy with duodenal biopsy revealed findings compatible with Whipple's disease, and the diagnosis was also confirmed through PCR techniques of blood. The patient was given antibiotic therapy, with rapid and substantial clinical improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paula Gomes
- Medical Imaging, Coimbra University Hospital Centre, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Luís Curvo-Semedo
- Medical Imaging, Coimbra University Hospital Centre, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Paulo Donato
- Medical Imaging, Coimbra University Hospital Centre, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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28
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Scheurwater MA, Verduin CM, van Dantzig JM. Whipple's endocarditis: a case report of a blood culture-negative endocarditis. EUROPEAN HEART JOURNAL-CASE REPORTS 2020; 3:1-6. [PMID: 31912002 PMCID: PMC6939820 DOI: 10.1093/ehjcr/ytz222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Revised: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Whipple's disease is caused by Tropheryma whipplei and causes a self-limiting gastrointestinal infection. The majority of the population is an asymptomatic carrier, however, in some patients, it causes an invasive infection with for example arthritis, endocarditis, or involvement of the eyes. Case summary This case describes a man with long-lasting complaints of progressive dyspnoea caused by heart failure due to total destruction of the aortic and mitral valve as a result of T. whipplei endocarditis, diagnosed with serum polymerase chain reaction. The patient was treated with ceftriaxone and prolonged co-trimoxazole therapy and surgical replacement of the aortic and mitral valve. He was discharged to a rehabilitation centre. Discussion Tropheryma whipplei is one of the possible microorganisms classified as causing blood culture-negative endocarditis, with predominantly afebrile patients that do not fulfil the Dukes criteria, which makes it difficult to diagnose. Polymerase chain reaction is the cornerstone of the diagnosis. It requires long-term antibiotic treatment up to 12 months. It is recommended by the European Society of Cardiology to discuss treatment in an Endocarditis Team because Whipple's endocarditis has only rarely been described in the literature previously. Whipple's endocarditis has high mortality and relapse rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam A Scheurwater
- Department of Cardiology, Catharina Hospital Eindhoven, Postbus 1350, 5602 ZA Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Cees M Verduin
- Department of Microbiology, Catharina Hospital Eindhoven, Postbus 1350, 5602 ZA Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Jan-Melle van Dantzig
- Department of Cardiology, Catharina Hospital Eindhoven, Postbus 1350, 5602 ZA Eindhoven, The Netherlands
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Thornton CS, Wang Y, Köebel M, Bernard K, Burdz T, Maitland A, Ferraz JG, Beck PL, Ferland A. Another Whipple's triad? Pericardial, myocardial and valvular disease in an unusual case presentation from a Canadian perspective. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2019; 19:312. [PMID: 31870305 PMCID: PMC6929430 DOI: 10.1186/s12872-019-1257-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Whipple’s disease is a clinically relevant multi-system disorder that is often undiagnosed given its elusive nature. We present an atypical case of Whipple’s disease involving pan-valvular endocarditis and constrictive pericarditis, requiring cardiac intervention. A literature review was also performed assessing the prevalence of atypical cases of Whipple’s disease. Case presentation A previously healthy 56-year-old male presented with a four-year history of congestive heart failure with weight loss and fatigue. Notably, he had absent gastrointestinal symptoms. He went on to develop pan-valvular endocarditis and constrictive pericarditis requiring urgent cardiac surgery. A clinical diagnosis of Whipple’s disease was suspected, prompting duodenal biopsy sampling which was unremarkable, Subsequently, Tropheryma whipplei was identified by 16S rDNA PCR on the cardiac valvular tissue. He underwent prolonged antibiotic therapy with recovery of symptoms. Conclusions Our study reports the first known case of Whipple’s disease involving pan-valvular endocarditis and constrictive pericarditis. A literature review also highlights this presentation of atypical Whipple’s with limited gastrointestinal manifestations. Duodenal involvement was limited and the gold standard of biopsy was not contributory. We also highlight the Canadian epidemiology of the disease from 2012 to 2016 with an approximate 4% prevalence rate amongst submitted samples. Routine investigations for Whipple’s disease, including duodenal biopsy, in this case may have missed the diagnosis. A high degree of suspicion was critical for diagnosis of unusual manifestations of Whipple’s disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina S Thornton
- Division of Respirology, Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada.
| | - Yinong Wang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Calgary Laboratory Services, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Martin Köebel
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Calgary Laboratory Services, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Kathryn Bernard
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.,Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Tamara Burdz
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Andrew Maitland
- Division of Cardiac Surgery, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jose G Ferraz
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Paul L Beck
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Andre Ferland
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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Savaryn B, Decker M, Ye C, Bacani J, Houston S. An atypical case of Whipple's disease presenting as fever of unknown origin: A brief review. JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION OF MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY AND INFECTIOUS DISEASE CANADA = JOURNAL OFFICIEL DE L'ASSOCIATION POUR LA MICROBIOLOGIE MEDICALE ET L'INFECTIOLOGIE CANADA 2019; 4:241-247. [PMID: 36339290 PMCID: PMC9612807 DOI: 10.3138/jammi.2018-0038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
A 59-year-old woman with epilepsy was admitted to hospital with a 6-year history of fever of unknown origin (FUO). Computed tomography (CT) showed extensive low-attenuation mesenteric and retroperitoneal lymphadenopathy. Investigations for malignancy and infection were negative, including two separate excisional biopsies of lymph nodes. An ascending aortic aneurysm was seen on CT, and a diagnosis of large vessel vasculitis (LVV) was considered. A trial of prednisone for presumed LVV was initiated and then discontinued when positron emission tomography (PET) failed to show vasculitis. Repeat core biopsy of a mesenteric lymph node revealed non-necrotizing granulomatous inflammation and histiocytes with periodic acid-Schiff (PAS)-positive intracellular material. Electron microscopy and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of the tissue confirmed Tropheryma whipplei. She was treated with ceftriaxone for 2 weeks, followed by long-term combination doxycycline and hydroxychloroquine. The patient's seizure control improved on therapy, raising the suspicion that the seizure disorder was due to Whipple's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bohdan Savaryn
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Martha Decker
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Carrie Ye
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Julinor Bacani
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Stan Houston
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Chwalisz BK, Buchbinder BR, Schmahmann JD, Samore WR. Case 32-2019: A 70-Year-Old Woman with Rapidly Progressive Ataxia. N Engl J Med 2019; 381:1569-1578. [PMID: 31618544 DOI: 10.1056/nejmcpc1909624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bart K Chwalisz
- From the Departments of Neurology (B.K.C., J.D.S.), Radiology (B.R.B.), and Pathology (W.R.S.), Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Departments of Neurology (B.K.C., J.D.S.), Radiology (B.R.B.), and Pathology (W.R.S.), Harvard Medical School - both in Boston
| | - Bradley R Buchbinder
- From the Departments of Neurology (B.K.C., J.D.S.), Radiology (B.R.B.), and Pathology (W.R.S.), Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Departments of Neurology (B.K.C., J.D.S.), Radiology (B.R.B.), and Pathology (W.R.S.), Harvard Medical School - both in Boston
| | - Jeremy D Schmahmann
- From the Departments of Neurology (B.K.C., J.D.S.), Radiology (B.R.B.), and Pathology (W.R.S.), Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Departments of Neurology (B.K.C., J.D.S.), Radiology (B.R.B.), and Pathology (W.R.S.), Harvard Medical School - both in Boston
| | - Wesley R Samore
- From the Departments of Neurology (B.K.C., J.D.S.), Radiology (B.R.B.), and Pathology (W.R.S.), Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Departments of Neurology (B.K.C., J.D.S.), Radiology (B.R.B.), and Pathology (W.R.S.), Harvard Medical School - both in Boston
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Epidemiology of Whipple's Disease in the USA Between 2012 and 2017: A Population-Based National Study. Dig Dis Sci 2019; 64:1305-1311. [PMID: 30488239 PMCID: PMC6499665 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-018-5393-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Prior studies on the epidemiology of Whipple's disease are limited by small sample size and case series design. We sought to characterize the epidemiology of Whipple's disease in the USA utilizing a large population-based database. METHODS We queried a commercial database (Explorys Inc, Cleveland, OH), an aggregate of electronic health record data from 26 major integrated healthcare systems in the USA. We identified a cohort of patients with a diagnosis of Whipple's disease based on systemized nomenclature of medical terminology (SNOMED CT) codes. We calculated the overall and age-, race-, ethnicity, and gender-based prevalence of Whipple's disease and prevalence of associated diagnoses using univariate analysis. RESULTS A total of 35,838,070 individuals were active in the database between November 2012 and November 2017. Of these, 350 individuals had a SNOMED CT diagnosis of Whipple's disease, with an overall prevalence of 9.8 cases per 1 million. There was no difference in prevalence based on sex. However, prevalence of Whipple's disease was higher in Caucasians, non-Hispanics, and individuals > 65 years old. Individuals with a diagnosis of Whipple's disease were more likely to have associated diagnoses/findings of arthritis, CNS disease, endocarditis, diabetes, malignancy, dementia, vitamin D deficiency, iron deficiency, chemotherapy, weight loss, abdominal pain, and lymphadenopathy. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the largest study to date examining the epidemiology of Whipple's disease. In this large population-based study, the overall prevalence of Whipple's disease in the USA is 9.8 cases per 1 million people. It affects men and women at similar rates and is more common in Caucasians, non-Hispanics, and people > 65 years old.
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Beltrame A, Ragusa A, Perandin F, Formenti F, Fenollar F, Edouard S, Laroche M, Zavarise G, Doro F, Giorli G, Raoult D, Bisoffi Z. Tropheryma whipplei intestinal colonization in Italian and migrant population: a retrospective observational study. Future Microbiol 2019; 14:283-292. [PMID: 30855186 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2018-0347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To obtain the first molecular epidemiological survey of Tropheryma whipplei intestinal colonization in Italy. Materials & methods: Retrospective, observational study to assess the prevalence of T. whipplei, the causative agent of Whipple's disease, in stool samples (real-time PCR) of patients attending the Center for Tropical Diseases (Italy) and risk factors associated. RESULTS Overall prevalence was 6.9% (85/1240). The younger age group showed a significantly higher rate than older age group (12.7 vs 5.9%, p = 0.002). The prevalence was 4.9% for Italians and 9.3% for migrants (p = 0.003). Among the latter, children less than 10 years had higher prevalence than older ones (17.3 vs 7.3%, p = 0.003). The young age, male gender and Giardia duodenalis and Entamoeba histolytica coinfection were risk factors. CONCLUSION Our study confirms an increased risk of acquiring T. whipplei infection during childhood, under poor sanitary conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Beltrame
- Centre for Tropical Diseases, IRCCS Sacro Cuore - Don Calabria Hospital, Via Sempreboni 5, 37024 Negrar, Italy
| | - Andrea Ragusa
- Centre for Tropical Diseases, IRCCS Sacro Cuore - Don Calabria Hospital, Via Sempreboni 5, 37024 Negrar, Italy
| | - Francesca Perandin
- Centre for Tropical Diseases, IRCCS Sacro Cuore - Don Calabria Hospital, Via Sempreboni 5, 37024 Negrar, Italy
| | - Fabio Formenti
- Centre for Tropical Diseases, IRCCS Sacro Cuore - Don Calabria Hospital, Via Sempreboni 5, 37024 Negrar, Italy
| | - Florence Fenollar
- Aix Marseille Univ, AP-HM, MEPHI, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 19-21 Bd Jean Moulin, 13005, France
| | - Sophie Edouard
- Aix Marseille Univ, AP-HM, MEPHI, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 19-21 Bd Jean Moulin, 13005, France
| | - Maureen Laroche
- Aix Marseille Univ, AP-HM, MEPHI, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 19-21 Bd Jean Moulin, 13005, France
| | - Giorgio Zavarise
- Paediatrics Department, IRCSS Sacro Cuore - Don Calabria Hospital, Via Sempreboni 5, 37024 Negrar, Italy
| | - Francesco Doro
- Paediatrics Department, IRCSS Sacro Cuore - Don Calabria Hospital, Via Sempreboni 5, 37024 Negrar, Italy
| | - Giovanni Giorli
- Centre for Tropical Diseases, IRCCS Sacro Cuore - Don Calabria Hospital, Via Sempreboni 5, 37024 Negrar, Italy
| | - Didier Raoult
- Aix Marseille Univ, AP-HM, MEPHI, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 19-21 Bd Jean Moulin, 13005, France
| | - Zeno Bisoffi
- Centre for Tropical Diseases, IRCCS Sacro Cuore - Don Calabria Hospital, Via Sempreboni 5, 37024 Negrar, Italy.,Department of Diagnostic & Public Health, University of Verona, P.le L. A. Scuro 10, 37134 Verona, Italy
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Melenotte C, Drancourt M, Gorvel JP, Mège JL, Raoult D. Post-bacterial infection chronic fatigue syndrome is not a latent infection. Med Mal Infect 2019; 49:140-149. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medmal.2019.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Whipple disease (WD) is an infection caused by the bacterium Tropheryma whipplei (TW). Few cases have been reported in the USA. AIMS To report on the demographics, clinical manifestations, diagnostic findings, treatment, and outcomes of TW infection. METHODS Cases of TW infection diagnosed from 1995 to 2010 were identified in three US referral centers and from 1995 to 2015 in one. Definite classic WD was defined by positive periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining and probable WD by specific positive TW polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of intestinal specimens. Localized infections were defined by a positive TW PCR result from samples of other tissues/body fluids. RESULTS Among the 33 cases of TW infections, 27 (82%) were male. Median age at diagnosis was 53 years (range 11-75). Diagnosis was supported by a positive TW PCR in 29 (88%) and/or a positive PAS in 16 (48%) patients. Classic WD was the most frequent presentation (n = 18, 55%), with 14 definite and 4 probable cases. Localized infections (n = 15, 45%) affected the central nervous system (n = 7), joints (n = 4), heart (n = 2), eye (n = 1), and skeletal muscle (n = 1). Blood PCR was negative in 9 of 17 (53%) cases at diagnosis. Ceftriaxone intravenously followed by trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole orally was the most common regimen (n = 23, 70%). Antibiotic therapy resulted in clinical response in 24 (73%). CONCLUSIONS TW infection can present as intestinal or localized disease. Negative small bowel PAS and PCR do not exclude the diagnosis of TW infection, and blood PCR is insensitive for active infection.
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Abstract
The alimentary tract serves as host to a large number of diseases. In the non-neoplastic group of disorders, conventional histochemistry continues to play an important diagnostic role. It is particularly important in recognizing specific infectious diseases, such as Helicobacter gastritis, Whipple disease, intestinal tuberculosis and other forms of mycobacteriosis, malakoplakia, intestinal spirochetosis, fungal enteritides, amebiasis, cryptosporidiosis, isosporiasis, and microsporidiosis. Those conditions and their histochemical properties are discussed in this review, along with the use of histochemistry in the characterization of structural gastrointestinal disorders. The latter include mucosal metaplasias, amyloidosis, glycogenic acanthosis of the esophagus, lymphocytic-collagenous colitis, gastric neuroendocrine hyperplasia, and pill gastritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick L Fitzgibbons
- Department of Pathology, St. Jude Medical Center, Fullerton, CA 92835, United States.
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Taruscio D, Vittozzi L, Rocchetti A, Torreri P, Ferrari L. The Occurrence of 275 Rare Diseases and 47 Rare Disease Groups in Italy. Results from the National Registry of Rare Diseases. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15071470. [PMID: 30002291 PMCID: PMC6068991 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15071470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 06/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Knowledge of rare diseases (RD) is often scattered among many data collections and registries of patient cohorts. Therefore, assessing the burden of RD in the general population, developing appropriate policies and planning services for the care of RD patients is difficult. This study aimed at providing a systematic picture of RD occurrence in a population as big as 60 million. Data of diagnoses were certified and collected by a network of 247 specialized centres covering the whole Italian territory. Data received (about 200,000 records) were validated according to formal criteria and, where necessary, corrected by the data sources. Data of age at onset and sex distribution are given for about 400 diseases. Incidence and/or birth prevalence are given for 275 diseases and 47 disease groups, which, altogether, comprise a substantial part of the known rare diseases. Data quality, internal consistency, and external validity of the database have also been assessed and ways to limit the impact of some discrepancies were devised. The information provided by RNMR, cutting across such a wide range of RD, represents a unique coherent basis allowing the prioritization of relevant public health measures and research activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenica Taruscio
- Centro Nazionale Malattie Rare, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Luciano Vittozzi
- Centro Nazionale Malattie Rare, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Adele Rocchetti
- Centro Nazionale Malattie Rare, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Paola Torreri
- Centro Nazionale Malattie Rare, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Luca Ferrari
- Centro Nazionale Malattie Rare, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy.
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Isolated Knee Arthritis as Early and Only Symptom of Whipple's Disease. Case Rep Med 2018; 2018:3417934. [PMID: 29977302 PMCID: PMC5994299 DOI: 10.1155/2018/3417934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2018] [Revised: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We report a case of isolated Whipple's disease involving the knee of a 64-year-old female patient who presented recurrent monoarthritis whose origin was not clear. Initially, the cause of the gradually invalidating symptoms was related to a meniscal lesion and a diffuse minor grade chondropathy, but pain and functional impairment suggested that more exams were needed. Biopsies were performed during arthroscopy. The histology showed highly inflammatory infiltrates with PAS staining negative for Tropheryma while PCR revealed the infection with Tropheryma whipplei. This, following the recommendation of a rheumatologist and infectious disease specialist, led to biopsies of the gastrointestinal tract and analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid that showed no other organ involvement. This confirms the scientific literature that an isolated monoarthritis without involvement of the gastrointestinal tract caused by this bacterium is rare but can occur as an early manifestation of potentially fatal systemic disease. Moreover, a review of the scientific literature showed the uncertainty about epidemiology of this rare disease, suggesting that more and specific data are required.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Just as gastrointestinal dysfunction may develop in the setting of neurologic disease, neurologic dysfunction may become evident in the setting of gastrointestinal disease. This article describes the range of neurologic features that have been described in three primary gastrointestinal diseases: celiac disease and gluten-related disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, and Whipple disease. Particular emphasis is placed on the controversial and evolving clinical picture of neurologic dysfunction in disorders of gluten sensitivity. RECENT FINDINGS Gluten-related disorders, including both the traditional autoimmune-based celiac disease and the more recently recognized nonautoimmune, nonallergic gluten sensitivity, have been the source of much attention in both medical and lay publications. The possible association between Crohn disease and neurologic disorders also is receiving attention. The recognition that, although Whipple disease is an exceedingly rare disorder, a surprising percentage of the population may be asymptomatic stool carriers of the causative organism makes it important to always be cognizant of the disorder. SUMMARY The range of neurologic dysfunction in gastrointestinal diseases is broad and spans the spectrum from peripheral to central processes. Peripheral neuropathy, myopathy, myelopathy, cerebrovascular events, epilepsy, encephalopathy, and cerebellar dysfunction have all been described. Neurologists should be aware of the possibility that an underlying gastrointestinal disease process may be present in and responsible for the neurologic dysfunction that has prompted referral of an individual for evaluation.
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Novel Tropheryma species in a lung biopsy sample from a kidney transplant recipient. Clin Microbiol Infect 2018; 24:548.e5-548.e8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2017.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Revised: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 09/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Bassene H, Mediannikov O, Socolovschi C, Ratmanov P, Keita AK, Sokhna C, Raoult D, Fenollar F. Tropheryma whipplei as a Cause of Epidemic Fever, Senegal, 2010-2012. Emerg Infect Dis 2018; 22:1229-334. [PMID: 27314980 PMCID: PMC4918168 DOI: 10.3201/eid2207.150441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Findings suggest that the bacterium has role in febrile episodes, is contagious, and has an epidemic character. The bacterium Tropheryma whipplei, which causes Whipple disease in humans, is commonly detected in the feces of persons in Africa. It is also associated with acute infections. We investigated the role of T. whipplei in febrile patients from 2 rural villages in Senegal. During June 2010–March 2012, we collected whole-blood finger-prick samples from 786 febrile and 385 healthy villagers. T. whipplei was detected in blood specimens from 36 (4.6%) of the 786 febrile patients and in 1 (0.25%) of the 385 apparently healthy persons. Of the 37 T. whipplei cases, 26 (70.2%) were detected in August 2010. Familial cases and a potential new genotype were observed. The patients’ symptoms were mainly headache (68.9%) and cough (36.1%). Our findings suggest that T. whipplei is a cause of epidemic fever in Senegal.
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Clinical Manifestations, Treatment, and Diagnosis of Tropheryma whipplei Infections. Clin Microbiol Rev 2017; 30:529-555. [PMID: 28298472 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00033-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Whipple's disease is a rare infectious disease that can be fatal if left untreated. The disease is caused by infection with Tropheryma whipplei, a bacterium that may be more common than was initially assumed. Most patients present with nonspecific symptoms, and as routine cultivation of the bacterium is not feasible, it is difficult to diagnose this infection. On the other hand, due to the generic symptoms, infection with this bacterium is actually quite often in the differential diagnosis. The gold standard for diagnosis used to be periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining of duodenal biopsy specimens, but PAS staining has a poor specificity and sensitivity. The development of molecular techniques has resulted in more convenient methods for detecting T. whipplei infections, and this has greatly improved the diagnosis of this often missed infection. In addition, the molecular detection of T. whipplei has resulted in an increase in knowledge about its pathogenicity, and this review gives an overview of the new insights in epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment of Tropheryma whipplei infections.
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Whipple's disease. J Neurol Sci 2017; 377:197-206. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2017.01.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2015] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 01/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Rollin DC, Paddock CD, Pritt BS, Cunningham SA, Denison AM. Genotypic analysis of Tropheryma whipplei from patients with Whipple disease in the Americas. J Clin Pathol 2017; 70:891-895. [PMID: 28385924 DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2017-204382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Revised: 03/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Tropheryma whipplei, the agent of Whipple disease, causes a rare bacterial disease that may be fatal if not treated. The classical form of the disease includes diarrhoea, weight loss, arthritis, endocarditis and neurological manifestations. Genotyping studies done in Europe, Africa and Asia showed high genetic diversity with no correlation between genotypes and clinical features, but contributed to a better understanding of the epidemiology of the disease. More than 70 genotypes have been described. No similar assessment of T. whipplei in the USA and the Caribbean has been performed. In this study, we describe genetic analysis of DNA from histopathological samples obtained from 30 patients from the Americas with Whipple disease and compare the genotypes with those previously identified. Complete genotypes were obtained from 18 patients (60%). Only 4 genotypes were previously described, and 14 were newly reported, confirming the diversity of T. whipplei strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominique C Rollin
- Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Christopher D Paddock
- Rickettsial Zoonoses Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Bobbi S Pritt
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Scott A Cunningham
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Amy M Denison
- Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Papakonstantinou D, Riste MJ, Langman G, Moran E. Misdiagnosing Whipple's disease in the young. BMJ Case Rep 2017; 2017:bcr-2016-218866. [PMID: 28325722 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2016-218866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Whipple's disease is considered an infection of middle-aged white men of European ancestry. Cases are rare and disproportionately associated with occupational exposure to soil or animals. We report the case of a man aged 22 years with no risk factors, erroneously diagnosed with, and treated for, toxoplasmosis on the basis of consistent lymph node histology. The correct diagnosis was delayed by the dramatic symptomatic improvement resulting from this therapy. Whipple's disease should be considered in cases of granulomatous lymphadenopathy of unknown cause, even if the age of the patient does not fit the classic presentation of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danai Papakonstantinou
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Birmingham Heartlands Hospital, Heart of England NHS Hospital Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Michael J Riste
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Birmingham Heartlands Hospital, Heart of England NHS Hospital Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Gerald Langman
- Histopathology Department, Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ed Moran
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Birmingham Heartlands Hospital, Heart of England NHS Hospital Trust, Birmingham, UK
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Laboratory Approach to the Diagnosis of Culture-Negative Infective Endocarditis. Heart Lung Circ 2017; 26:763-771. [PMID: 28372886 DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2017.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Blood-culture negative endocarditis (BCNE) accounts for up to 35% of all cases of infective endocarditis (IE) and is a serious life-threatening condition with considerable morbidity and mortality. Rapid detection and identification of the causative pathogen is essential for timely, directed therapy. Blood-culture negative endocarditis presents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Causes of BCNE are varied including: treatment with antibiotic agents prior to blood culture collection; sub-optimal specimen collection; and/or infection due to fastidious (eg. nutritionally variant streptococci), intracellular (eg. Coxiella burnetii, Bartonella species) or non-culturable or difficult to culture organisms (eg. Mycobacteria, Tropheryma whipplei and fungi); as well as non-infective aetiologies. Here, we review aetiological and diagnostic approaches to BCNE including newer molecular based techniques, with a brief summary of imaging investigation and treatment principles.
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Abstract
Whipple disease is a rare, chronic multisystem infectious disease. The central nervous system (CNS) is secondarily involved in 43% of patients; 5% of patients have isolated or primary CNS involvement. The most frequent CNS symptoms are cognitive changes. Prosopagnosia is an inability to recognize familiar faces, in a person who does not have vision impairments or cognitive alterations. This relatively rare condition is usually related to vascular, traumatic, degenerative, or infectious lesions. We report a 54-year-old woman who presented subacutely with fever, headache, and seizures that led to a diagnosis of infectious meningoencephalitis. She improved temporarily on broad-spectrum antibiotics, but then developed a chronically evolving cognitive impairment with associative prosopagnosia as the major complaint. She had a history of sporadic abdominal pain and mild sacroiliac arthralgia. After a negative duodenal biopsy, we confirmed primary CNS Whipple disease by polymerase chain reaction and brain biopsy. We treated the patient with ceftriaxone for 15 days and then co-trimoxazole for 2 years. At 8-year follow-up, she had no further impairments, but continuing prosopagnosia. To our knowledge, this is the first description of isolated prosopagnosia in a patient with primary CNS Whipple disease. Because CNS Whipple disease can lead to serious, irreversible lesions if not promptly treated, clinicians must suspect the diagnosis, treat with long-term antibiotics, and follow patients carefully to prevent recurrence.
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Dugdale C, Brown S, Davila C, Wolkow N, Fishbein G, Sun J, Barkoudah E, Rawizza H. Out of Sight: Culture-Negative Endocarditis and Endophthalmitis. Am J Med 2017; 130:e51-e53. [PMID: 27637598 PMCID: PMC5263175 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2016.08.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Revised: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin Dugdale
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, Mass.
| | - Sarah Brown
- Department of Internal Medicine, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, Mass
| | - Carine Davila
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of California San Francisco Medical Center
| | - Natalie Wolkow
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston
| | - Gregory Fishbein
- Department of Pathology, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, Mass
| | - Jennifer Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Joslin Diabetes Center, Beetham Eye Institute, Boston, Mass
| | - Ebrahim Barkoudah
- Department of Internal Medicine, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, Mass
| | - Holly Rawizza
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, Mass
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