Vibrio vulnificus infection of the skin and soft parts. Communication of a case diagnosed in Argentina

Vibrio vulnificus is one of the most virulent Vibrio species known. It is a bacterium with universal distribution. The first case registered in Uruguay occurred in 2001 and, since then, several infections have occurred per year. Recently, in this country, V. vulnificus was responsible for a fatal soft tissue infection. Although no cases of human infection with this species have been reported in Argentina, researchers have recently identified V. vulnificus in samples associated with microplankton in the Rio Negro estuary. We present the case of a severe skin and soft tissue infection by V. vulnificus from an open wound in a patient in contact with a marine aquatic environment on the coast of the River Plate, in Uruguay. Isolation of vibrios from wound specimens can cause rapidly progressing tissue damage, particularly V. vulnificus which has a high mortality rate without early and appropriate intervention. In our case, the rapid identification of the microorganism allowed us to support the empirical treatment used, which a good clinical evolution.