The First Lethal Infection by Oligella ureolytica: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Abstract

Oligella ureolytica is a Gram-negative bacillus, a member of the Alcaligenaceae family, that had never previously been reported as lethal. Herein, a case of fatal infection caused by Oligella ureolytica in an elderly woman with suspected bladder cancer is reported. The species identification was confirmed through Sanger sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA sequence and compared to published sequences for phylogenetic analysis. Initial antibiotic therapy with ceftriaxone and oxacillin was initiated but had to be switched due to resistance. Cefepime in combination with metronidazole was administered, unfortunately failing to prevent the patient’s death. Further studies are needed to explore additional factors influencing clinical outcomes in Oligella ureolytica infections.