Granulicatella adiacens Causing a Parapharyngeal Abscess in a 10-Month-Old Infant: A Rare-Case Report and Literature Review of Deep Neck Infections (DNIs) in Children

Granulicatella adiacens is a rare variant of the Streptococcus bacteria. When isolated, G. adiacens has been described in cases of endocarditis and bacteremia, but less commonly seen in isolated pyogenic infections. We report a case of a parapharyngeal abscess caused by G. adiacens in an otherwise healthy 10-month-old infant, which was successfully treated with antibiotics and surgical drainage. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first described case of a pediatric deep soft tissue neck infection caused by G. adiacens with one other report in an adult. Additionally, of all localized infections from this bacteria, this is only the second reported case in the pediatric population. We also include an evidence-based literature review of the clinical presentation, microbiology, imaging modalities, and management approach to deep neck infections (DNIs).

Granulicatella adiacens Endocarditis of a Bioprosthetic Aortic Valve

Infective endocarditis (IE) is relatively uncommon; however, when it is diagnosed, it is usually among those with known cardiac valvular abnormalities. The most common pathogens that cause endocarditis are streptococci (mainly viridans), enterococci, and other streptococci species. An extremely rare pathogen that could cause IE is Granulicatella. This gram-positive coccus classically inhabits human mucosal surfaces and only rarely causes disease. We present an incredibly rare case of a 74-year-old female with a bioprosthetic aortic valve replacement, who presented with headache and weakness and was subsequently found to have recurrent Granulicatella adiacens infective endocarditis.

Granulicatella Adiacens as an Unusual Cause of Microbial Keratitis: A Metagenomic Approach

Metagenomics Next-Generation Sequencing can provide taxonomic and functional profiles of microbial keratitis communities without the need to culture infected corneal samples. We share our experience on a case with negative culture but positive metagenomic results.

Vertebral Osteomyelitis Due to Granulicatella Adiacens, a Nutritionally Variant Streptococci

Vertebral osteomyelitis is a common pathology affecting the spine. We present the case of a 46-year-old male who was diagnosed with progressive L2 vertebral osteomyelitis due to a rare pathogen, Granulicatella adiacens. Granulicatella adiacens is part of the normal body flora and is often difficult to culture on traditional mediums. The patient required a lateral corpectomy and posterior fixation for spinal stabilization and source control.