The Majority of Bacillus subtilis Strains Isolated From Blood Cultures Were Derived From Traditional Japanese Fermented Soybeans Natto: A Single-center Retrospective Study - Summary - MDSpire
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The Majority of Bacillus subtilis Strains Isolated From Blood Cultures Were Derived From Traditional Japanese Fermented Soybeans Natto: A Single-center Retrospective Study
To assess the prevalence and clinical impact, including morbidity and mortality, of Bacillus subtilis var. natto in cases of B. subtilis bacteremia.
Key Findings:
Out of 4634 positive blood cultures, 70 (1.5%) were identified as B. subtilis, with 69 (99%) classified as B. subtilis var. natto. The total number of patients analyzed was 4634.
25 cases (36%) were confirmed as true bacteremia.
Primary diagnoses included intra-abdominal infections, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections.
The median patient age was 79 years, with a 16% 30-day mortality rate.
Interpretation:
B. subtilis var. natto, often considered a harmless probiotic, can unexpectedly cause significant bacteremia, particularly in elderly or immunocompromised patients.
Limitations:
The study is retrospective and conducted at a single center, which may limit generalizability.
The reliance on genetic testing for accurate identification of B. subtilis var. natto may not be feasible in all clinical settings, potentially leading to underdiagnosis.
Conclusion:
Clinicians should recognize the potential severity of B. subtilis var. natto bacteremia and not dismiss it as harmless, especially in vulnerable populations.
Older age, male sex, underweight status, reduced activities of daily living, and mild consciousness disturbance were associated with postextubation pneumonia in elective surgical patients.
