Lower Limb Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection Associated with Corynebacterium minutissimum in an Adolescent: A Case Report and Surgical Management.
Shihao Zheng, Jiaqi Li, Xiaodi Zou et al.
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Case in brief
A 14-year-old boy presented with progressive ulceration, swelling, and malodor in the left lower leg, leading to a diagnosis of necrotizing soft tissue infection (NSTI). Intraoperative findings revealed nonviable tissue, prompting surgical debridement. Cultures identified Corynebacterium minutissimum, but its role as the sole pathogen was uncertain. The patient achieved satisfactory healing after staged reconstruction and follow-up showed no recurrent infection.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should be cautious when interpreting the significance of Corynebacterium minutissimum in wound cultures, especially in the context of necrotizing infections, as its role may not be definitive.
Why it matters
This case highlights the importance of integrating microbiological results with clinical findings and operative observations in managing complex infections.