Evaluation of prevalence, predisposing factors, inter-species differences in clinical profile and outcome of Campylobacter blood-stream infections: a 7-year experience from north India

Abstract

Purpose: A comprehensive study evaluating the prevalence, risk factors, and outcome of Campylobacter bloodstream infection (CBSI) in the Indian population is lacking.  

Methods: A retrospective analysis of blood culture specimens positive for Campylobacter species over a 7-year period (September 2013 to August 2020) was conducted. Campylobacter species were identified using MALDI-TOF MS and patients’ details were retrieved from hospital records.  

Results: 39 episodes from 38 patients were reported (0.15% of all BSI), with one case of recurrence. The median age was 10 years. 54.5% of patients presented with gastrointestinal symptoms. Steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome predisposed pediatric patients (27.3%) and liver cirrhosis predisposed adult patients (81.8%) to CBSI.  

Conclusion: C. jejuni was the most prevalent species (59%) followed by C. coli (25.6%) and C. fetus (15.4%). C. fetus infection was seen in immunocompetent patients (p=0.01) and was associated with longer hospital stays (p=0.01). The overall outcome of CBSI was good.