Tularemia-associated septic shock with pneumonia, lung abscesses, and pleural effusion leading to multiorgan failure: Is Francisella tularensis still a deadly pathogen in the antibiotic era? A case report.
Alicja Popiołek, Michał Balak, Tomasz Skalski et al.
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Case in brief
A patient with pulmonary tularemia presented with septic shock, lung abscesses, and pleural effusion, leading to multiorgan failure. Despite initial clinical improvement following treatment, the patient was discharged but died shortly thereafter. The cause of death remains uncertain, potentially linked to tularemia or other complications.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should consider Francisella tularensis in patients with atypical pneumonia, especially those with relevant environmental exposure, as it can lead to severe complications.
Why it matters
This case underscores the need for thorough exposure histories in diagnosing rare infectious agents, particularly in patients with treatment-refractory pneumonia.