Severe pneumonia due to an atypical organism in an immune-competent patient

Abstract

Myroides species, formerly classified as Flavobacterium odoratum, is a waterborne pathogen. It is well known to cause infection in immune-compromised patients. Infection by this organism is acquired occupationally or nosocomial via inhalation, ingestion or dermal absorption. Because these organisms are uncommon they may be difficult to identify and treat promptly. We present a case of a young immune-competent fish farm worker who presented with typical pneumonia like symptoms but eventually having an overwhelming inflammatory cascade secondary to an atypical infection by Myroides species.