Streptococcus gallolyticus Bacteremia Detected in Apheresis Platelets and Its Link to Colonic Neoplasms

Abstract: Introduction Streptococcus gallolyticus belongs to the Streptococcus bovis complex, and it is a common bacterium colonizing the gastrointestinal tract. Its presence in the blood may suggest an underlying pathology such as a colonic neoplasm. We report herein a case of S. bovis bacteremia in an apheresis platelet donor, review similar cases in the literature, and suggest a flowchart for the management of similar cases in other blood donation centers. Case Presentation A 61-year-old subject presented to a Hemotherapy Service to make an apheresis platelet donation. On quality control testing, S. gallolyticus was identified in hemoculture, and the donor was called back for follow-up. At first, a new hemoculture was requested, and the patient was referred to the outpatient department of infectious diseases to further investigate pathologies associated with S. gallolyticus. A subsequent colonoscopy investigation evidenced a polypoid structure in the ascending colon. Pathology reported the resected specimen as a low-grade tubular adenoma. Conclusion Isolation of S. bovis in blood products requires further investigation and should be managed with precision by Hemotherapy Services. A standard protocol for the management of asymptomatic patients with S. bovis positive hemoculture, with the requests of a new blood culture, a colonoscopy, and an echocardiogram is crucial, as it may ensure early diagnosis and reduce morbidity and mortality.

Object Details

• Location: Deutsche Nationalbibliothek Frankfurt am Main
• Extent: Online-Ressource
• Language: Englisch

References and Relationships

• Bibliographic citation: Streptococcus gallolyticus Bacteremia Detected in Apheresis Platelets and Its Link to Colonic Neoplasms ; volume:42 ; number:03 ; year:2022 ; pages:273-276 ; Journal of coloproctology ; 42, Heft 03 (2022), 273-276

Contributors, Places and Time

• Contributor: Lemanski, Francisco Costa Beber ; Barp, Anna Laura Duro ; Hammacher, Gabriela Kohl ; Cas, Martina Estacia Da ; Wink, Cristine Moratelli ; Voloski, Ana Paula dos Santos ; Pasqualotti, Adriano ; Araújo, Cristiane da Silva Rodrigues de

Further information

• DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1754384
• URN: urn:nbn:de:101:1-2022112413515889142099
• Rights: Open Access; Der Zugriff auf das Objekt ist unbeschränkt möglich.
• Last update: 15.08.2025, 7:38 AM CEST