A rare case of Bilophila wadsworthia bacteremia presenting as multiple hepatic abscesses: A case report and literature review.

INTRODUCTION

Bilophila wadsworthia is a rare anaerobic, bile-resistant, Gram-negative bacillus and emerging opportunistic pathogen implicated in intra-abdominal and hepatobiliary infections. Its role in hepatic abscesses remains underrecognized due to fastidious growth requirements and diagnostic challenges.

CASE PRESENTATION: We present the case of a 62-year-old woman who developed septic shock secondary to polymicrobial hepatic abscesses. Imaging revealed two large multiloculated abscesses in the right hepatic lobe. Blood cultures grew Bilophila wadsworthia, identified by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, while drain cultures yielded Streptococcus Group F and mixed anaerobes. She was managed with percutaneous drainage and a six-week course of intravenous antibiotics, followed by oral amoxicillin-clavulanate. Despite initial clinical improvement, her course was complicated by pleural effusions, ileus, malnutrition, and prolonged hospitalization.

DISCUSSION: This case represents the eleventh reported episode of B. wadsworthia bacteremia and the third associated with hepatic abscesses. Its pathogenicity likely stems from bile tolerance, H₂S production, and extracellular enzyme secretion. Review of the literature suggests B. wadsworthia is a rare but significant contributor to polymicrobial hepatic infections, particularly in patients with prior dental disease or intra-abdominal pathology. Early identification using molecular diagnostics, source control, and prolonged antibiotic therapy are essential for favorable outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Clinicians should consider B. wadsworthia in the differential diagnosis of polymicrobial intra-abdominal infections. This case adds to the limited literature and underscores the importance of advanced diagnostics in detecting rare anaerobic pathogens.