As many of you are aware, Vibrio Vulnificus infections, including Vibrio Vulnificus septicemia has now been reported in Hurricane Katrina flood water exposed patients. Though most frequently seen in patients with pre-existing liver disease, diabetes and the immunocompromised, Vibrio Vulnificus can infect the normal host as well. Skin related infections and injury are common in flood victims. Vibrio Vulnificus infection can begin several days after exposure to flood water through skin lacerations or ingestion of contaminated water.

Vibrio Vulnificus sepsis frequently presents with skin findings.

Local infections can appear as pustular, lymphangitic, or cellulitic lesions that can be mild or rapidly progress into painful cellulitis with widespread necrosis. In primary bacteremic vibrio, tender erythematous patches and plaques quickly progress to vesicles and hemorrhagic bullae, which may result in gangrene and necrotizing fasciitis. DIC has been documented.

As a public service - more information, including clinical images can be found at http://www.visualdx.com/vibrio. Please feel free to disseminate this link to others that may be treating these flood patients.