Empyema Caused by Unusual Pathogen Capnocytophaga

Emhemmid Karem, Hazim Bukamur*

Abstract

Empyema is a collection of pus in the pleural space. Empyema caused by Capnocytophaga species is extremely rare, and after extensive review of the literature, we found only four reported cases of Capnocytophaga empyema. In our case report, we present a case of 71-year-old male with Capnocytophaga empyema initially presented with signs and symptoms of acute congestive heart failure (CHF), with no history of splenectomy or animal bite. The pleural fluid Cultures grew Capnocytophaga, no other organisms were identified and blood cultures were negative. People at increased risk of developing Capnocytophaga infections include post splenectomy patients, Diabetics, male sex, age over 50, and alcohol abuse. The risk factors for our case were age, male sex, congestive heart failure, and history of alcohol abuse. The patient was treated with chest tube drainage and appropriate antibiotics with complete resolution of his empyema.