Spontanous bacterial peritonitis caused by Listeria monocytogenes – a possible indicator for Carcinoma

Spontanous bacterial peritonitis caused by Listeria monocytogenes– a possible indicator for Carcinoma

M.Pangerl, S.Hinz, D.Pape, B.B.Wolf, R.Guenther

UK-SH, Campus Kiel, Klinik für Innere Medizin I

Introduction Listeriosis is a foodborne infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes. These bacteria frequently colconize the intestine and are responsible for severe gastroenteritis, including sepsis and neurolisteriosis. Immunocompromised patients have an increased risk of Listeria infection. However, little is known about spontaneous bacterial peritonitis caused by Listeria. Case studies in recent years have shown that patients with liver cirrhosis are more at risk. In rare cases, however, a Listeria infection can also indicate a previously unknown neoplasia.

Methods We present a 77-year-old woman who came to the emergency room with persistent diarrhea and fatigue. The initial examination revealed leukocytosis and new-onset ascites. Blood cultures were taken and an ascites puncture was performed in the presence of known liver cirrhosis. The blood cultures were negative. The ascites cultures were positive for Listeria monocytogenes. Treatment was started with ampicillin. Neurologically, there were no signs of meningitis. In summary, further cross-sectional imaging showed a suspicious echogenic structure in the area of the ovary. After further investigation and biopsy, the detected structure was confirmed as a carcinoma.

Results After diagnostics had been carried out, the listeria bacteremia revealed an underlying malignant disease, in this case a previously undetected ovarian carcinoma.

Conclusion The risk of Listeria infection is increased in patients with liver cirrhosis or immunosuppression. In rare cases, however, an infection can also indicate carcinoma.

Publication History

Article published online:
20 January 2025